IT was a warm Cluny welcome that greeted North Carolina songbird Tift Merritt on her return to Newcastle.

There is a drive matched by few in this pocket dynamo, who, with Jay Brown on electric bass and harmony vocals, showcased a healthy sprinkling of material from her new album See You On The Moon.

That fitted perfectly alongside favourites such as the aching ballad Stray Paper and an impassioned Virginia, No One Can Warn You plus the bright and breezy, Broken.

Each and every one a winner.

Alternating between acoustic guitar and keyboards, Merritt, who also played harmonica, was forever busy as she continually strived to get her music across. Her excellent work rate, combined with Brown’s economical bass, ensured the evening ran on well-greased wheels.

Local act Simple Swan opened for Merritt and such was their hard work and material they’ll be sure of a warm welcome on their return to the venue.

Maurice Hope