David Goo, Talitha, Chris Thatcher.

Lev 1. Esquires Bedford. 2nd December 2010.

Making a sojourn from their usual abode are Bedford Live Presents, whose slant on the musical front is always the best in acoustic, both far and wide. The inclement weather has not been kind to either performers or punters. Indeed, due to snow and ice on the M25, Verity Sessions unfortunately could not make it from her Brighton base. A shame as she was due to showcase her new album entitled "Interval" (on R2R Music) for us. Thankfully our three other artists enjoyed better luck.

In a warm and cosy Danny's Bar, the opening shots are fired by 'lovable loon' CHRIS THATCHER. Usually to be found tucked away behind his drumkit in PHR, his solo acoustic act is always such fun. Strumming some catchy tunes, his irrepressible off the cuff banter makes for quite a potent brew. Totally anti-fashion, he is sadly lacking his normal seventies flares, although in this hideous weather, he sensibly dons a woolly ski cap. Singing songs of "keeping my nose to the grindstone", he also speaks of concocting lyrics in a field that tell of "rampant atheism and religion plus Alice In Wonderland", described by a friend as being like a sweary Donovan! "Shangri-La" may be a rare happy song, but Chris seems far more comfortable on "Me and Old Moon". It tells of "doing bad things when you're drunk"! As Mr T advises us at the close, "Drink through the cold". Knowing words from this musical sage.

Based in London, TALITHA has packed a lot of living into her young life. Best known in Bedford from her visits as vocalist of Jynxt, she is from a cosmopolitan and expansive global family. Her cute transatlantic accent gives only a brief flavour of this, at times, nomadic lifestyle. Stunning looks and a sparkling personality radiate throughout the bar. Although she starts with a song called "Uninspired", it is certainly an inappropriate title for her set. Tonight, by Tally's own admission she is "trying something a little different!". Her sister has kindly offered her services as a backing keyboardist. A brave move as she admits that she doesn't play them often. Tally's portfolio of material is appreciated by this small, but enthusiastic, crowd. "Perfectly Broken" is easily my favourite as it tells of keeping under control when everything around you appears to be falling apart. "Recipe for disaster" is an ironic title as it sees the sisters switch instruments. It's Tally's turn to demonstrate her piano skills. A seasonal cover of "White Christmas" closes the set. At this early time of the month, perhaps this rendition is just for friends and family!

"All the way from London, David Goo" announces DAVID GOO! He is certainly not short on self-confidence. Thankfully we are past the watershed as any stray visitors may have got a shock from some of his fruity lyrics, some of which border on the blue. As with the previous artist, David is also from a varied background. "What's funny about Israel?" he questions as he tells us of his life. He is here to entertain and also to escalate the craziness! His guitar is magical and also trained to kill. Although this is short set, his impact is direct and immediate. His rapport with the crowd is spontaneous and at times very funny. 'John' and 'Roy' (two noted local musicians and not their real names!) are both especially singled out for some verbal sparring. Bad taste rules and "Cancer" has never sounded so funny (yes really)! Naturally on "The Virgin Song", male and female genitalia get more than a passing mention. A cruder term is always reserved for the penis! A revelation for all the people who braved the cold conditions. For those not here, you missed one of the most amusing and original performers in the country. Hopefully when he returns to Bedford (this was his second appearance), his band will join him.