 | | Teddy Thompson |
Teddy and relative debutant Kamila certainly oozed the confidence one would expect children of folk-rock legends, Richard and Linda, to possess. Inevitably, they’re also close pals of Martha and Rufus Wainwright. It seems folk dynasties stick together. Kamila’s voice was simply faultless – deep velvety perfection throughout her short opening set. But her songs lacked inspiration both musically and lyrically, which was frustrating to hear. Big brother Teddy’s performance, however, confirmed the rumours of his bordering-on-arrogant brilliance. His first song, I Wanna Be A Huge Star, was sung with such brooding conviction, the audience could not have doubted his sincerity for a second, in spite of his sarcastic insights into the pain underpinning the glamour. Not that anyone would have noticed if he wasn’t sincere – those who weren’t singing along with their eyes shut were probably transfixed by his surprisingly public school good looks. New York-based Thompson’s wry English melancholia shone in Sorry To See Me Go and Separate Ways, the title track to his latest album. But highlights on the night were the beautifully introspective Altered State and That’s No Way To Be, the latter ending in almost hypnotic guitar. Interspersed with audience participation, a couple of fantastic duets with Kamila and frequent quips, the set ended too soon. Thankfully, Teddy left us with the hope of things to come: “I’m making a new record at the moment. And it’s pretty good.” I bet it is too. | 
