Eddi Reader and Robin Adams – Celtic Connections – Pavilion Theatre – January 26, 2024

Eddi Reader’s entire set was warm, relaxed, at times hilarious and felt like we were all in one big living room enjoying the songs and stories of one of this country’s best singer/songwriters.

Gracing the stage with familiar gems like Find My Love, Perfect, Patience of Angels, as well as gorgeous arrangements of Burns’ classics Willie Stewart and Charlie is My Darling, Eddi had the audience captivated from start to finish.

Her hilarious stories and impersonations of members of her family were a real joy and made me think back to past Jones’ family parties where my dad had his big video camera and had everyone sing their party piece.

Eddi is in a league of her own with mesmerising vocals and playing several instruments. Highlights included stellar covers of Declan O’Rourke’s Love is the Way, the song Fairground Attraction which saw Eddi singing in French paying homage to Edith Piaf. Backed by a tremendous band which included Eddi’s husband John Douglas, Boo Hewerdine (whose song Dragonflies was another highlight), Alan Kelly and former Felson Kevin McGuire, Eddi made everyone happy encouraging sing songs.

She is a true entertainer and is right at home on the stage. Eddi you are an inspiration and a national treasure.

I first discovered the music of Robin Adams at the Billy Kelly Songwriting Award Competition back in 2008, which Robin went on to win. Since then, he has gone from strength to strength with his music having won the Celtic Music Radio Album of the Year in 2021.

Robin’s song writing, vocals and guitar wizardry are a joy to see and hear, especially in such a wonderful setting. Joined onstage by Charlie Grey on fiddle and David Bowden on double bass, the musicianship made Robin’s songs truly flourish. Robin’s music channels the likes of John Martyn.

The onstage banter was fun, too, especially when it was explained how far travelled the band were with Charlie having made the journey from Fort William and David all the way from Mount Florida. The highlight of the set was Black Clou, which involved a wonderful singalong with Charlie’s lovely fiddle melody. Robin showed that he truly deserves to be on the big stage.

MARTIN STEPHEN JONES