GIG REVIEW

Rory McLeod, Deerhart, Maja Lena, Boss Morris

At the Goods Shed, Stroud

THE Goods Shed, on Station Approach, was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

A few years ago SVA took it over and transformed it into an arts space.

Tonight it morphed into a folk club, with comfy sofas and four acts that wouldn’t be out of place at any decent folk festival.

First up were Stroud’s Boss Morris, an all-women Morris side who are making a name for themselves with their unique take on traditional English Folk dance.

Next on under the soft lighting of a well placed standard lamp was Maja Lena.

With a voice as sweet as honey she showcased her new material.

It follows in the tradition of Sandy Denny and Joni Mitchell.

Maja Lena is definitely an act to look out for.

The evening continued with Nancy Trotter Landry and Rob Pearson, who perform as Deerhart. Although Nacy’s distinct jazz sprinkled voice was perfectly complemented by Rob’s guitar and keyboard it was an a cappella song dedicated to the late, great Polly Higgins that was the high point of their set.

And so to tonight’s headliner.

Rory McLeod played an eclectic mix of guitar-based Celtic and Latin American rhythms, complemented by some incredible harmonica and an ever present stomp-box.

His topics ranged from travellers’ tales to bereavement and tunes from the picket line, and it would be fair to say that his chat in-between songs was just as entertaining.

All in all four great acts in a historic venue was one of the best nights out I’ve had in a long time.