In total contrast to the flowing cleanliness of support Laura Marling, when Daniel Johnston first takes to the stage with just his guitar and a book of lyrics, it’s an entirely unrhythmic affair. Having lost much of his musical ability due to his battles with manic depression and obesity, every minute spent onstage is a battle for him. As if to confirm Johnston’s cult status, one fan even escaped from a Bristol hospital, ticketless and on crutches on the off-chance he could get in. (He did.)

After a few songs, Johnston’s joined onstage by an old college friend who takes over guitar-playing duties, allowing the crowd to appreciate Johnston’s best asset, his timeless, sensitive and simple songwriting, made even more transfixing with his quivering voice and shy delivery.

After a short break, Johnston returned to the stage with support band The Wave Pictures as accompaniment. Consisting of the lo-fi gems that made him famous, a healthy dose of Beatles covers, and new material, the set was brought to life with a band and audience that felt honoured to be there, ending with a sublime take on the quintessential Daniel Johnston song, ‘True Love Will Find You In The End,’ after which a beaming, tearful audience rushed to hug their idol.

Tom Holcroft