A rather unpleasant day spent taking bets and making conversation with punters had left me with a rather sour taste in my mouth. Thankfully, a walk in the rain and a cup of tea (there was no bar) later, I felt much better. There was also some live music to be had at the BBC's Pacific Quay building as part of Celtic Connections, so I tuned in.
Vivien Scotson was first up. Bluesbunny knows all too well what Vivien is capable of, and I was very glad to see Vivien full of confidence onstage. With her on/off musical partner, Sandy Devers, she delivered a heart-warming set of folk-tinged gems, as well as her standard Burns song. Vivien will grab your attention, but won't beg for it, like those irritatingly loud and bland indie bands. A solid performance from a very soulful woman.
Finniston came up next. Contrary to popular assumption, they are NOT from Finnieston. After a slow start, Finniston came to life with a colourful set of folky alt-pop. This band have been tipped for big things by more reputable publications and it's not hard to see why. My only gripe is that they did not sound terribly Scottish until the fiddles came out. I hope this band doesn't move to California. During their set, this reviewer was constantly reminded of Aberfeldy which, in itself, is no bad thing. Watch this band.
Former Old Blind Dogs guitarist Jim Malcolm was next. This Bluesbunny loves those who love their country (not necessarily the people or the government), and Malcolm is fiercely Scottish. Above all, he's an engaging performer. Malcolm really engaged with his audience, and they spurred him on. We were told Jim was off to America the next morning. You have to admire his enthusiasm, and we wish him all the best in America.
The final performance of the evening came from the Bostonian bard, Alastair Moock. Alastair is a folk singer of the highest pedigree, and tonight was but a half-hour showcase. The highlight of his set was his attempt to get the Glasgow crowd to sing along on "Own Way To Heaven". Suffice to say it didn't work but that took nothing from the power of Alastair's music. Alastair has amassed a decent following in Scotland in the past couple of years, and it's no less than he is due. A genuine voice.
So that's that. A terrific night of folk and Americana and a perfect remedy to a bad day at work that provided a superb showcase for four notable acts, each impressing in their own particular way.