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This is the second gig to be staged at The Ravenswood, Sharpthorne for Acoustic Sussex. But unlike Jonathan Kelly's gig it was not staged in the Old Baronial Hall, but in the conference centre - and very impressive it was too. This is the perfect venue for a small to medium-sized acoustic style gigs and is capable of seating approximately 300 with a bar to the left of the stage area. The hall is circular in shape and has some of the historic artefacts similar to those in the Old Baronial Hall displayed on the walls, such as tapestries and other hangings, giving it an air of quality. The sound quality was excellent too and is well worthy of the guests who come and play for us. I was feeling a little tired on the night and needed a little livening up. The support for Amy was Steve Simpson, who also happened to be a friend of Amy's and who had accompanied her before on many occasions. Steve has been a time-served session musician for years and it shows too. He has been associated with loads of well known musicians including The Sutherland Brothers & Quiver, Roger Chapman (of Family fame) and Ronnie Lane's Slim Chance (before Ronnie's sad demise). The music is well rooted in the blues but Steve touched on other styles too. His guitar work was driving and extremely well executed and provided the livening agent I need to wake me up. Once he had started, I never looked back. His voice lent an added quality to the songs and sounded rich and powerful at times, more gentle and silky at others. He did about 6 songs before making way for the wonderful, beautiful, diminutive Amy. When I say diminutive, I only mean diminutive in the sense of altitude because what Amy lacks in height she more than makes up for in a qualitative professional presentation. Amy played both electric piano and acoustic guitar throughout the performance and the songs were delivered with passion. Although she originates from Bristol, she has spent a lot of time in Wales and now lives in Cardiff and it is quite apparent that she has a passion for the Welsh culture - including learning to speak Welsh. (If she likes all things Welsh, then I wonder if I stand a chance...) Her voice was both sweet and harmonious with an occasional slight rough edge to it when she gave it a little wellie. After each number the applause from the audience was deafening and she got the kind of reception that most professionals only get at the end of the gig when everybody is warmed up. She brought the house down after each number! Her guitar and piano work was excellent giving the perfect finishing touches to her exquisite poetry. Steve came back on for two numbers providing suitable backing with both his fiddle and mandolin. Her set included several favourites from 'Woj' (Breathe, Paris, Nothing) and some tempting treats from her soon to be released new CD, No Sudden Moves.. On two numbers, by means of electronic trickery, Amy laid down a accompaniment which she promptly added a beautiful harmony voice too. The set finished with the single - a tremendous version of the Manics 'A Design for Life', sung with immense feeling (see pic 2). This was no new performer at Acoustic Sussex; it was a welcoming return for Amy as most of the audience knew and loved her well. I think I am in love, again! Llawer iawn diolch Amy, Perffeithrwydd! Review courtesy of Bob Preece |
