Glitter Balls And Chandeliers

This is the ceiling of Bush Hall in London.  Isn't it beautiful?

I was there Thursday night with James to see the start of Brandi Carlile's solo acoustic tour.  (I fully approve her decision to start it in London!)

Having only seen Brandi play with a full band, I was excited to see such a stripped-down performance.  I wondered how the songs would sound without the twins and their gorgeous harmonies; without the three guitars and cello.  Let me tell you, she was just as brilliant.

Brandi sang old and new songs with a few covers in between.  (Damien Rice's 'Cannonball' was just beautiful.)  My favourite part of the night came during 'Turpentine'.  Usually during this song the crowd are split into three parts to sing harmony, each group following Brandi, Tim or Phil.  You'd think with just Brandi on stage it wouldn't work to attempt this but we sang those harmonies loud and proud with no direction and it was awesome.  It was perfect.  James really enjoyed the evening too, I think he gets my obsession now!

Have a listen to 'Throw It Away':

This cover of Roy Orbison's 'It's Over' is just beautiful:

(By the way, if you think I've been a bit quiet on the blogging front lately it's because blogger hasn't published my last few posts...they're all up now though!)