The Henneseys

This was a great way to start the night, emotive and powerful vocals ably accompanied by a great twin guitar sound. The trio clearly put thought and practice into creating an excellent performance either as full-blown rock'n’roll (‘Valerie’ and ‘Painkiller’) or in more gentle and touching mode ('New York').

Finch

In the last year or so Finch has evolved from shy sideshow to mainstream attraction! She has a fantastic jazz vocal style and is a very competent songwriter. Tonight this included songs about being in love ('Sometimes'), not being in love ('Nothing to give') and pure jazz ('Papa Mama').

Lindsay West (and Dave!)

When Lindsay sings people stop and listen. She has a captivating intensity to her delivery. ‘Shall I Lie’ with its haunting vocal was excellent, ‘Hold Me’ was a bit different and quite special. There was subtle quality drum accompaniment by Dave and quality lyrics throughout.

Alan and Andrea

Time for some groovy bluesy stuff from this pair who normally play in Jazz / Blues outfit ‘Blue Touch’. I’m not sure exactly what you need to pull off this kind of vocal performance but Andrea’s got it! Inventive, interesting and imaginative guitar throughout. Highlight – the seasonal ‘Autumn Leaves’.

Gary-The Andy’s-and Mark

This was great! OK I’m a bit biased cos I’ve played with Gary and Andy FS many times before but this set was played with humour, enthusiasm and swagger (Rob on sound reckoned I’d taught them well!!) 'Squeezebox', 'The Boys Are Back In Town' (yes – acoustically…it worked!) and 'Dancing In The Moonlight'. Refreshing and well received.

Darin Robinson

A true high-quality act this. I guess you would describe the style as ‘Transatlantic’. Great songs including ‘Going Nowhere’ and a phenomenal cover of ‘Crazy’. This was a solid, engaging, entertaining and well received performance.

Ben Marwood

Here’s a youthful ONSA veteran who pops in from time to time…and we’re so glad he does! His original style and thoughtful lyrics (particularly on ‘More Good Propaganda’) mark him out from some of his contemporaries. He also does a very good line in charming the audience – a great skill to have!

Philippa Berry

Yet another top-notch singer-songwriter! Philippa has a graceful style and gentle performance that gives her songs air and interest. Highlight was ‘Rollercoaster’. Please come again soon!

Paul Harris

Paul has an engaging yet slightly vulnerable presence which is a great backdrop to his finely crafted songs. Great lyrics, excellent guitar sound and powerful performance. Tonight we had ‘Whatever She Wants’, ‘My Room’ and ‘Moonshine’.

The African Rhythm Experience

ONSA goes world Music – and brilliant it was too. I was half expecting the cast and crew of ‘The Lion King’ to appear! This outfit does exactly what it says on the tin. The ‘lead’ rhythm drums was delivered with spellbinding excitement and the whole thing was hugely entertaining AND different.

Quesada

This trio were charming and accessible – sometimes tense sometimes moody.  Good vocal and backing vocals coupled with strident guitar made up a powerful set. The introduction of Jena’s violin was inventive and worked well. To cap it all the cover of ‘Jolene’ was an inspired choice and very well delivered.

Scattered Few

As a special treat Jena was allowed to have 2 acts tonight! This performance was also good. She has a quiet and attractive charm whilst performing. This coupled with imaginative ideas and arrangements made for another great set.

David Ribi

Poor David had to wait till the end of a very long night…but he was well worth waiting for. For those who missed him I shall be giving him a prime slot at the next available ONSA. For a young guy his vocal abilities and range are awesome. His piano skills are noteworthy on their own. When the two are combined the result is outstanding. We had an evocative rendition of ‘Get Here’ and ‘Walking In Memphis’ plus an excellent original song ‘Restless Boy’. Now, get those songs recorded, get them out and about…and make some cash with those covers in the meantime!