Live Review: Tim Hart, Stu Larsen, Neda

Upstairs in the 2 Sparrows Bar, The Newport's new intimate gig space, three very talented and very different artists warmed the infant walls and more than fulfilled the expectations of the small giddy audience. WA's own Neda sent her angelic folk vocals down the stairwell to welcome the early comers as she opened the night and the bar. Her distinct voice was accompanied by the deep grain of her male support guitarist and is very easy on the ears. As she left the stage and you found yourself humming her lyrics in the back of your mind you can be guaranteed that you were not prepared for what came next.

Stu Larsen, who can best be described as the gifted spawn of Jeff Buckley and Van Morrison has an instant stage presence. A slightly distracted crowd (initially) were stunned to silence as perfectionist Larsen produced an eerie version of Coldplay's Fix You. A brave move by Tim Hart, putting this captivating songster on the stage, a move that obviously came from Hart's deep appreciation for his musical ability as he welcomed him back on stage for three songs (one of which a Larsen original) during his own set.

Tim Hart, the already accomplished drummer of Boy & Bear demonstrated further musical dexterity as he skipped along his fret board and even a 12-string during Thompson, swoon! Hart, obviously after a beverage or two, contrasted his emotional and brooding folk tunes with light-hearted stories and general chat. A duet version of Ray Lamontagne's Jolene with Larsen was one of the many highlights of the night. As the night ended you found yourself wanting more – of Hart's deep soulful voice, exquisite finger picking and lyricism, but also more of Larsen.