IT wasn’t a look I thought I was going to enjoy - a woman with a scowling face, white and black polka dot skirt and an electric guitar.

But Alabama Shake’s brand of soulful, passionate blues got a superb reaction from the crowd at Latitude 2012’s Obelisk stage.

The lady in question - postwoman turned blueswoman Brittany Howard - gave a level of dedication and focus to her job rarely seen. If someone had said she was possessed, not too many around would have disagreed.

It was basic blues from the four-piece, but the sheer drive of Howard made it a stand-out performance of the Latitude weekend.

Before Alabama Shake had mixed things up, Rufus Wainwright had opened the Obelisk day in powerful fashion.

The talented singer-songwriter, whose jackets are the only thing more incredible than his voice, put together a brilliant set.

When the day starts with Rufus and Albama Shake, it’s difficult for other acts to keep up.

But some did match them - notably We Are Augustine’s late afternoon appearance at the woodland stage.

Away from the music, Rich Hall went down a storm at the comedy arena.

Overall by far the best day so for music - probably helped by the occasional glimpses of sunshine.