“…having fallen for her last few albums and indeed the retrospective Essential collection attending was an absolute no-brainer, but despite devouring Gretchen’s recorded output nothing had prepared me for such a mesmeric performance.

Gretchen took to the stage ably backed by Barry Walsh (keyboards, accordion, husband), Conor McCreanor (bass) and Colm McClean (guitar/pedal steel) and launched into an evocative rendition of The Secret Of Life, instantly demanding full attention from the full to capacity auditorium as she unveiled that expressive vocal and masterly use of language that she’s became renowned for. From there the thought provoking Matador, with it’s Latin tinged accordion laced introduction, then onto to Guadalupe… delivered here with Barry Walsh providing backing vocals and McClean’s aching pedal steel, whilst Gretchen delivers a stunning, slightly weathered lead.”

To read this review in its entirety, visit Rhythm & Booze.