One of the most enjoyable evenings I have experienced at this club was on Thursday 26 June when Australian songwriters Marcia and Damian Howard came here to headline. An evening with a magic atmosphere.

The first half of the gig was quality local music from songwriters Tinderbox and the Douglas Firs after a lively bluegrass start to the evening from Catherine Burke and Paddy Mathlin.

Damian and Marcia performed brilliantly as a duo, each accompanying the other's songs. Surprisingly they performed their best known songs early in the set. 'Mercy' was the song I knew best of Damian's. Introducing it, he explained a serious political context of the song. Marcia's 'Burning In The Rain' was delivered with a balance of power and gentleness. It was clear we were in the company of not just great perfomers but inspiring songwriters.

As we approached the last quarter hour of the set, Marcia invited Catherine to play whistles for her on a couple of songs including 'The Poison Tree' (the song she sang on Woman's Heart with Mary Black). Then brought Monique (Tinderbox) and Suzy (Douglas Firs) to sing harmonies. It was a lovely idea to include other good musicians in their set. It all sounded great!

The Howards had arrived in Heathrow only a few hours before from Australia and yet they performed brilliantly and showed warmth - and respect for fellow musicians. Indoor gigs in Summer don't often attract large audiences. Another time I'd like to book them to play at a different time of year so more of us could enjoy the music of Damian and Marcia Howard.

Paul Burke