I was partly attracted by seeing the Unthanks again as I enjoy their mix of traditional and modern Northumbrian music but also I wanted to see the support act, Trembling Bells. We had seen them supporting Bonnie Price Billy but their set had been spoiled by poor sound quality which was more a product of the venue than their fault. Strangely enough their set was again marred by a sound issue but I guess that was our fault partly in that we ended up sitting very close to the drums which then rather dominated the sound. However their set was stunning even though aforesaid drummer was a stand-in. Lavinia Blackwell has an outstanding voice with a power and purity that reminded me of Sandy Denny. The songs are rooted in folk tradition but with a modern edge ( a bit like the Unthanks really)and the set was energising. I particularly remember 'Goathland' and 'Cold Heart of Mine' but it was good start to finish.
The Unthanks had a big band with various backing musicians as well as the core band members. There was perhaps more variety than I remember from last time I saw them but once again 'Gallowgate Lad' stood out with some beautiful vocals and a haunting quality to the song. Both the gals have great voices but also their voices blend so well and that makes them an act worth seeing again and again. There was also some excellent backing singing from the band members and they are a professional outfit all around.
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