A gig featuring new songs can feel as if it is a try-out session, but Cécile’s recent numbers were delivered with such conviction and passion that they felt truly lived in. 1950s Tie about what happens when your partner is up to no good was full of devilment, Cécile grabbing the mic from the stand and completely owning the stage against hard driving backing. Around my Heart was more reflective, Stevenson’s piano decorating the vocal lines, Cécile making the new sound old as Popp’s imaginative drums and Ferg Ireland’s moody  double bass added atmosphere. Magnolia was a slow waltz about two magnolia trees blossoming for three short weeks a year, but the best fun was her Swim Swim Swim blues: what do you do with a snake in the grass agent, who ‘knew Quincy Jones’ and who steals your money? You write a song about it, and boy, did Cécile have steam coming out of her ears as the band rocked it mercilessly, the ‘man in the hat’ not forgiven.  Santa Monica Mantra was a sunny bossa nova, Cécile egging the crowd on with her ‘know that you are loved’ call and response.

Changing gear right down with Ewan MacColl’s song The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face into the playlist was finely judged, Cécile pulling it off, holding the long notes in thoughtful duet with Stevenson, his elegant playing capturing the piece perfectly. Elvis’ hit They Remind me too Much of You also had Cécile in reflective mood, Stevenson’s bubbling accompaniment adding atmosphere.

We will remember this performance for Cécile’s total stage presence, her grasp on getting songs across, her lively dancing movement, her vocal delivery and range and how to work an audience. It was a treat to hear her with a lively trio in a club-like setting as bigger venues will surely beckon. Her sign off with her own This is Love, had us singing along as if we had known it for years, the band pushing it forwards with driving funky rhythms. What a night!