Biffy Clyro go acoustic at the O2 Blueroom last night

There was an expectant air amongst competition winners and hardcore fans last night as they made their way into a cavernous O2. Taking to a makeshift stage in front of no more than a few hundred people (a surreal sight), Biffy Clyro were met with much applause (and one unearthly roar).

For a band that have finally broken through after years of trying, it proved a rare chance to see them up close and personal. The short and sweet set was one for the fans: new tracks from Only Revolutions sat alongside singalong favourites with the odd obscure B-side thrown in for good measure.

The likes of 'Machines', 'Mountains', 'Little Soldiers' and 'God and Satan' all got an airing; the whole throng soon joining in with every word. It all culminated in a great rendition of 'Many Of Horror'. For those unable to secure tickets, the gig had been streamed live on the O2 blueroom website from 7pm.

The acoustic set-up suited them well, allowing their newly acquired pop melodies to shine through. It highlights how far they've progressed: from the noisy Nirvana in-debted early days to the mainstream contenders they have become. The band themselves were in affable form: singer Simon Neil went from gently jeering his bandmates, the Johnston twins, to dedicating a song to "Bono's back".

A journey back to Scotland was looming, leaving no time for any encores. Instead, with appetites well and truly whet, they left with the promise of a fully electric return to Oxegen.

Biffy Clyro are set to play the Oxegen festival taking place Friday July 9 to Sunday July 11 at the Punchestown Racecourse.