So the 2024 gig calendar is in full swing with my second gig on consecutive nights. This time it’s at the quirky Paper Dress Vintage store opposite Hackney Central station that in the evening doubles up as a music venue.
First up is Scottish acoustic folkster Neev. I was not aware of her before the show but will definitely check out the album. With an extended vocal range I think that she has something that makes her stand out in the sea of female folk singers at the moment.
Another first time live experience with Kaia Kater for me although a long-time fan and was really looking forward to this acoustic/banjo picking show with the added bonus of double bass accompaniment tonight.
With a new album on the way we are treated to many songs from there including lead single ‘The Internet’ but of course there is plenty of room for old favourites and the two requests were spot on. It was great to hear these songs really come to life, the picking is faultless and that deep soulful voice uniquely her own but shades of Tracey Chapman and Aimee Mann is a wonderful instrument. Bassist Andrew Ryan is the perfect foil both musically and vocally and the acapella traditional Grenadian song ‘La Misère’ sang in French by them both was a proper hair on the back of your neck standing moment.
‘Meridian Ground’ was a personal highlight for me. Such a great song and before we know it, it’s over.
Another good show to really start the year on a high and looking forward to many more throughout 2024.
Keep on acoustic, banjo pickin’, rockin’ y’all