Songbirds - October at the Bedford

Wow.

We had an amazing evening last night at the Bedford. We met up with scrummy Wordweaver and her hilariously funny partner, A for an evening of chat and good music. Niki hosted the show case and sounded incredibly sexy, complete with tonsilitus so she didn't sing with her co-partner in crime - Been. But she fizzed with energy and introduced the artists with humour and good grace.

A few people didn't show up to the gig, mostly because they were flat-out sick with flu, the other excuse was a heartbreaking break-up that very morning by one of the artists with her partner. However, this shaky start did not deter from a brilliant evening.

The highlights were Sweet Laredo - this duo from Brisol has a diversity that is utterly mesmerising. The lead singer, Sarah Scott and her accompanying good friend on guitar, Dan Coggins utterly rocked the house with a bit of country, a bit of jazzy rock a bit of gospel. Sarah is a funky lead singer - she grins, the audience grins, her humour is as infectious as is her vocals. She seriously belts out the songs with great gusto and from this small lady, comes a very big voice. Excellent stuff.

Niki introduced October next. I tried finding her on myspace but am not sure if I am missing a surname somewhere for her. Her music however is folksy, a bit angry, a bit cheeky and she will no doubt be someone to watch in the future as Niki read a few reviews from different folk festivals October had played at and they were all rave reviews. It would be interesting to watch this young 23 year old artist grow and see how far she makes it.

Eliza Wren Payne stepped up next - and my god, when I come back I want this girl's legs and talent. She is funny, quirky and her musical talent is something to boggle your mind. Her voice is light and airy with a range that astounds. Her songs, all written by her, carry a unique wistful quality that makes your eyes water. She stood there, her posture ramrod straight, guitar slung across her like shoulder, gave the audience this quirky grin and set off to entertain. Listening to her, I realised that Songbirds is doing something truly unique, showcasing talented young female artists. The exposure these young women are getting is increasing their profile in the music industry and slowly but surely they will make it big. We bought a copy of Eliza's 7 song album for a fiver and drove home listening to it. It is as funky and fun as she is, as quirky and a perfect "noise" for a cold winters evening. It was great.

Three young artists also performed, known as the Revelations. They are young, pretty and very talented. Eventhough I enjoyed their music, I wasn't struck by them as much as I was by say, Eliza or Sweet Laredo. Revelations have got a single coming out at the end of November and I wish them the best of luck. I think, once they have grown a bit, once they are more relaxed in their role as performers, they will be taking the music industry by storm. Their second set was much better than their first. You go girls and all the luck to you.

We drove home last night, filled with music and positive vibes - I have come to love our monthly music fixes with Niki and Been. Two great ladies who should both be receiving rewards for their service to the music industry.

Oh, and if Niki reads this - happy birthday for this coming Saturday! You don't look older than a fresh virginal 18 year old.