Live Review: Sam Buckingham, Steve Parkin, Eloise Ashton

It was certainly the kind of evening to warm your bones with some local talent and revel in compositional ideas, and people who came in off the brisk streets of Northbridge on Sunday night did just that. With candles scattered about the place to bring a little light and heat, sofas you could sink into and three wonderful acoustic acts to enjoy, Sam Buckingham's launch of I'm A Bird and its corresponding tour was just the thing for the winter evening.

Eloise Ashton led with her set, accompanying herself with but a ukulele and a very lovely-sounding keyboard. Ashton's songs were honest and captivating, particularly her last tune, which was simple, yet transported the listener from their own reality and pulled them right into the song. Second on the bill was Steve Parkin, another excellent choice for the night, fitting in immaculately between the two ladies' sets. Parkin stood mid-stage in the company of just his guitar, staying true to the minimalistic charm of the night's music. Parkin's voice was oddly reminiscent of Tim Rogers' singing style, however where Rogers often sings off-key, Parkin would completely nail the note he wanted. With a short set of acoustic numbers and some between-song banter, his time was soon up and everyone gathered for the lady of the hour.

Sam Buckingham's set was colourful and soulful and saw her performing songs as beautiful as she, with flowers in her hair and all down the mic stand, complementing the candlelight and soft hum of conversation, which ceased when she began to sing. Buckingham's voice was wonderfully unique as she performed her set to enthralled listeners. Patrons of The Bird that evening gathered around her and sat cross-legged on the floor as Buckingham told them stories about, and through, her songs - mainly about love but also the importance she holds in being true to herself.

Beginning with the titular song from her brand new album release, I'm A Bird, Buckingham's set was excellently crafted and had unexpected volume and variety for one featuring just voice and guitar. Every so often she told the audience a little bit more about herself and her music, sharing experiences and excitement over the scheduled six-week tour around the country. After a few songs she insisted everyone sing along, and after a bit of encouragement (in her own cheeky words, “Well that was… A bit shit. Let's try that again!”) the crowd made a great contribution to the tune. One particularly memorable track was Mountain Sun, which was especially tender and raw, and one audience member was seen in tears by the end. Such was the way of Buckingham's words, relatable and moving.

Initially disappointed Mountain Sun didn't feature mandolin as it had in the recording, this reviewer was very happy to see it brought out for the last few songs. Along with the audience singing, she then got people to whistle and clap to her remaining pieces, covering Jolene by Dolly Parton and finishing with an a cappella piece, which was mega cute – featuring the clapping of the audience and perfectly ending on a single, drawn-out note.