MUCH travelled Americana singer-songwriter Nels Andrews opened the gig and though not feeling too well, the show’s quality meant few realised this.

Andrews’ heavy-handed strumming was solid enough at the start, but more impressive was when he eased off the urgency to allow his observations of true life settle to in the mind of the listener.

With Lady of the Silver Spoon – done as a duet with Egge, who excelled on steel guitar coupled with a southern leaning – Jesse’s Mom and The Dollar and the Dream (from his album Off Track Betting) his melodies become increasingly stronger and connect with the audience.

New York resident Egge, a hugely-talented songwriter and accomplished guitar player, won the audience with her unforced vocal style and quality lyrics that spoke of, among other things, River Beneath the Bridge that was inspired from a previous visit to Newcastle.

She astonished the audience through her song creations, and though not all were instant hits, her artful vocal style was never less than heart warming.

In the case of Johnny’s Garden and a bluesy-toned version of Gene Autry’s It’s My Lazy Day, Egge deservedly won a place in the heart of the audience. As with good wine, her albums and performances get better every time.

Maurice Hope