Normally this cat is way too hip to be seen down Ashton Lane, but I knew it was wrong to miss out on seeing Kim Richey at Bar Brel. So, putting sleep aside, I picked up the pen and perched myself awkwardly on the Brel staircase.
Adriana began proceedings with a wonderfully warm set. Although it was just one girl and her guitar, there was nothing plain about this performance. "A Thousand Lives" was delivered with an almost haunting beauty. Adriana's voice on "Aisha" may just have had the seated men weeping into their beers - only I wasn't watching them. Clearly, Adriana loves performing, and I for one would hope she does so for years to come. Those unfamiliar with the name beforehand will not soon forget it.
And then there was Kim Richey. Accompanied by lead guitarist Jez, Kim delivered a set of country-tinged folk songs, straight from the heart. Kim's voice carries a certain opulence - you can tell she means what she sings - and songs such as "Every River" showed exactly why this show was a sell-out. This duo has established a terrific understanding, and enjoys playing together. The crowd were clearly here for the music and they certainly enjoyed it. Kim's encore was a hushed one - Brel is rather strict on the 10pm curfew - but also a stunning unplugged rendition of "A Place Called Home". I swear a few eyes in the room were cloudy.
There we have it. Another night of great music. Unless you have a very valid excuse, reader, I can see no reason why you weren't in attendance. For shame!