Bella Hardy is stacked with all the attributes of an accomplished musical performer. Gilt-edged vocals nestle alongside a flair to bring the best out of the violin. A keen ear detecting eminence and value in traditional song inspires her own songwriting chops to respond and creatively curate original material. A stylish poise illuminates the performing space. These qualities have served this Derbyshire-based folk luminary well over the years ensuing treasured status and a wealth of acclaim. A sense of renewal is in the air as we approach the middle years of the decade and an advancing landmark of being 20 years in a recording realm.
The presence of Bella Hardy fills a room with vitality and freshness. An added spark to this evening's show was a debut performance at the Kitchen Garden, partial oversight and partial lure of frequenting larger venues. In one of her peak years, 2015, a Birmingham Town Hall stage was shared with Mary Chapin Carpenter. There has been a life and career reset in recent years. Releases aren't quite as frequent as in peak productive times and her own family dynamics have radically changed. The current tour that came out of the blue appears not bound by any clear strategy, just an urge to reflect, bond with fans and drip feed newish songs into a changing world.
Between initial listing and pre-gig posters, the name Jenn Butterworth appeared as a playing accomplice. Those aware of this ultra-talented Scottish guitarist purred at the value added and all present lent their ear to some sublime playing that delightfully accompanied a batch of prime songs and tunes. An album due in February sees her ahead of her tour host in terms of new releases and this will likely be on many folk fans 'to catch' list when out.
The duo show possessed a degree of escalating evolution. Sparks increased as a brace of sets followed. Improvised moments fuelled a mutual ethos. An end too soon is a sign of a night on the mark. When the joy of playing transmits to the audience, the satisfaction of laying your money down grows. Embracing the key ingredients of quality, presence and aura is crucial to a fulfilling live music engagement.
When putting flesh on the bones of Bella Hardy's successful Kitchen Garden debut, the starting point has to be her award winning signature tune 'The Herring Girl'. The twist is dark and sweet amidst a thoughtful recognition of a trade from the Scottish Highlands to eastern England. WITH THE DAWN is a significant release in the back catalogue and it housed a couple of blessed show moments including 'The Darkening of the Day'. The opening segment set the scene with 'Hares on the Mountain' and 'My Johnny Was a Shoemaker'. The future was signalled via a new single 'One Day at a Time'. 'Sprig of Thyme', 'Queen of Carter's Bar', 'Sleeping Beauty' and 'Shepherd's are the Cleverest Lads' all played a part forming a song content enhanced by sumptuous guitar, serene violin and vocals decked with stylish aplomb.
Venue vibes, magical musicianship and crafted connection positioned Bella Hardy in a good place. The past may be rich, yet more to offer is apparent. The beauty of a live performance is disguising the innate gulf between those who can and those who appreciate. Humbly honing in on your talent is a performing virtue. The Kitchen Garden proved a good fit for Bella Hardy, Jenn Butterworth and a satisfied audience.
