Idlewild
With support from Reeve (Manchester RNCM 22/01/05) The uplifting Scottish trio Reeve opened this night of alluring acoustic entertainment with a thrilling and humble foray into humanity, as the talented singing fiddler Jenny Reeve (also of Eva) soothed souls with her comforting yet authoritative, Kate Bush repressing the impulses of P.J. Harvey, vocal range. She graced the rustically decorated stage featuring lampshades and an old piano with the down to earth mystery and poise of an actor in a Harold Pinter play. Her uncomfortable but entertaining between song banter emphasized the fact that she and her counterparts live through music, as they emphatically substantiated the view that music can make anyone feel composed and comfortable at any time. For those wowed by Reeve’s soothing stage presence and warm soulful music, it would be music to their ears to see Jenny return to the stage, this time joined by Roddie Woomble and company, adding to the acoustic and Celtic feel of tonight’s set. Gathered around the stage area as though gathered around a campfire for a singsong, the band created an intimate and warm atmosphere for the whole crowd, as though they were playing to you in your own living room. The intimate atmosphere was not the only homely feel, as the stage dcor consisted of a highland style living room, with low glowing lamps, traditional furniture, and free-flowing wine, the only thing missing was dust on the wine bottles, oh and a fire. Woomble stood before the band and the crowd, standing up throughout as though he was the first to provide the entertainment at the campfire gathering, opening the night with the acoustically suited and heart-warming rendition of “When I Argue I See Shapes.”
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