Next up tonight is the main reason for grabbing our umbrellas and heading out at all, Tom McShane. As he takes to the stage, with a humble introduction to his new release, he starts into the delicate first song from The Ural Winter. Soon we are treated to the title track, and a little insight into the inspiration of its birth, with thick bass lines and gentle guitar complimenting the song-writer’s sweet vocals.



The stage is packed with talented musicians, including allies from the making of the album, and it makes for a beautiful arrangement. As the crowd listen attentively, McShane and friends make their way through the album without any major hiccups, engaging us throughout. There is a real analogue atmosphere tonight, which makes it special. There are lots of elements to the music and it is clear a lot of hard work has gone into the making, and the 'heart-on-your-sleeve' style lyrics make it all relatable.



Shadier corners of the album, and set, are found in “Love is Hard”, with eerie violin melodies, broken up with light whispers of the keys and beautifully dark female vocals, reminiscent of Markéta Irglová of The Swell Season. Soulful trumpet is dispersed throughout the set, with a mentionable solo in “My Nadir” later on. Tom reaches out for help from the crowd to partake in some humming, and even with a practice run our efforts don’t do the band justice. We can’t help but feel the album has been aptly named, as it seems perfectly appropriate on this rainy night in June, and it sure warms you up.



Sara Larkham