I never understood the whole panties thing. Welsh crooner Tom Jones barely gets the words "What's New Pussycat?" out and it starts raining underpants - girls' underpants. But, for me anyway, it seems a hollow gesture, like throwing an empty candy wrapper on stage. C'mon, I want the candy. Now pushing 70, Jones has more sex appeal than wannabe Romeos half his age. This is a legend that still delivers the goods, and I hear he still lets you keep your hat on.

Tom Jones performs Sunday, June 21, 7 p.m. at Auditorium Theatre, 875 E Main St. $39-$65. 232-1900.