IT IS rather an honour to be asked to open the prestigious Harrogate International Festival: an accolade Amy Winehouse simply does not deserve.

Propelled to the apex of the burgeoning new jazz age on the strength of her debut CD, Frank, Winehouse did seem a good bet on paper. On the evidence of her live performance, her recording producers clearly had their work cut out harnessing a volatile and wayward talent.

All did not bode well when a shabbily turned out Winehouse greeted the expectant audience with the fake Yardy fused with Cockney brogue: 'Hi ya Arrow Gate.'

Of course, many of the audience remained silent. They couldn't understand her greeting. This is a major flaw.

Stroppy ramblings and directionless histrionics may well pass as style in Winehouse's mind. Unfortunately, few can decipher what the girl is whining about. Ms Winehouse's manner has more than an air of arrogance about it: more a contempt for her audience.

Perhaps Winehouse's brand of jazz could be appreciated as aural modern art?

Actually, to be fair her wonderful band softened the shambolic performance of someone who has been touted as a major talent. But if this is art, it's not the equivalent of Monet ... more Pollocks!

Possibly, the most memorable moment of the performance came with Amy's announcement: 'My boyfriend went away for the weekend. So, I had sex with someone else. Tough!' - How charming.

Winehouse not only let down her audience, but also herself - big time.

Jazz audiences can be very loyal. However, there will be few who would want to spend another hour in her company.

Updated: 10:25 Tuesday, July 27, 2004