Egerton Village Hall

Martin Ledner spoke softly but under this veneer was an angry socialist. His songs were sung with uncommon conviction and the number with the line “They only make heroes of the men that never come home” was particularly affective.

Relig Oran are a more traditional act than the masks and hats of their publicity photos would have you believe. OK, they play an African thumb piano and a spilt log, but in context and it’s all remarkably appropriate to the traditional tunes that form the backbone of their repertoire. Adding some variety here and a colouring there rather than overwhelming.

They are were fast out of the gate with a big set of tunes, which they string together with an exceptional ear for composition and pace. They are gathered from the furthest flung reaches of Scotland to mainland Europe and form an impressively enjoyable and varied set. All the playing is good but Martyn Kember-Smith’s fiddle is absolute treat.

In amongst the tunes, there where also a a few songs. World turns upside down sounded more mournful than angry but they opened the second half with their best song of the evening – an adventurous version of Ye Mariners All. Impressively moody with a compelling instrumental section that builds and builds.

It’s fair to say that by and large, the tunes are more successful than the songs, and they played for a bit too long but everyone in Egerton Village Hall that evening was treated to an unconditionally entertaining night of traditional music. Eclectic and delightful. Not to be missed.