LAWSON were always another pop band as far as I could see, on a par with One Direction, The Wanted and new kids on the block, The Vamps.

But after dropping in to see them perform an intimate charity gig at the IndigO2 on Thursday, my perception has somewhat changed.

The London-based foursome were joined on the bill at the one-off charity show by Nina Nesbitt and together, they were raising money for the Charlton Athletic Community Trust and Help a Capital Child.

Hosted by the familiar voice of Capital breakfast Dave Berry, the whole affair was a bit of a school disco.

Throughout both Lawson and Nina’s set, there were youngsters racing around the venue, gallivanting and dancing with friends and family in what was a frenzy of youthful excitement.

Lawson were an awesome act – despite their radio-friendly pop songs, they are a million miles ahead of other boybands currently doing the circuit.

Forget the leaping around and choreographed dancing associated with the likes of 1D and JLS – Lawson are four, muscly men oozing with talent.

Lead singer Andy Brown had the crowd going from the off as the band belted through their catalogue of hits, reeling off classics such as When She Was Mine, Taking Over Me and Standing In The Dark.

Album tracks Back to Life and Love Locked Out were thrown into the set and I was left standing there overcome by the noise of this band.

Lawson are a proper rock band. The sound of their guitars and drums filled the venue and they made a right racket – but it sounded bloody good.

It’s hard to believe they only have one studio album – and a re-release – under their belt, based on how experienced and talented these guys clearly are.  

Turning back the clock an hour before the Lawson boys burst onto stage, the equally talented Nina Nesbitt opened the show.

The Scottish singer/songwriter performed a fast-paced set of nine tracks in her style, which is kind of the result you would expect if you put Taylor Swift and Ellie Goulding into a blender.

She debuted several tracks from her album Peroxide - which is out today – including The Hardest Part and Tough Luck, setting the stage for what looks to be a promising career.

Fan-favourites including opener The Apple Tree and top-25 hit Stay Out were dropped into the 40-minute set too.

Two top acts and two very worthwhile causes – a great night all round.