Rainbow Chasers and Last Orders
Victoria Hall, Saltaire

Ashley Hutchings was a little anxious before Rainbow Chasers went on stage.

The former Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span and Albion Band founder and bass player announced to the packed audience that the gig was the first his new guitarist and singer Joe Topping had played with the band in public.

Thirteen assorted numbers and one encore later, Hutchings smiled as he ruffled the hair of his fine new musician and embraced the two women in this versatile band.

Generously, he also asked the audience to acknowledge the talent of Last Orders, four young music students from Newcastle - guitar, two violins and accordion - who opened proceedings with a brilliant set, a mixture of English, Irish, European and Jewish folk tunes. Hopefully they'll return to Saltaire in the coming year.

Before returning to the North East they came in and stood at the back of the hall as Ashley Hutchings put Rainbow Chasers through their paces - a nod here, a smile there - and chatted amiably to the audience.

In Jo Hamilton and Ruth Angell he has two distinctive singers, capable songwriters and accomplished musicians who play electric viola, violin and guitar.

Joe Topping, also a songwriter, has a strong voice and plays lead guitar with a sensitive touch. Nerves showed when he opened the set with a couple of false starts; but his rendition of If You Can't Be Strong, You'd Better Be Smart was unwavering.

All of the songs, best described as popular contemporary with folk influences, were composed by the four band members.

All in all a fine blend of talent much appreciated by an attentive audience. "See you again," Ashley Hutchings said after the encore. He certainly will.

  • The next show at Victoria Hall is on Sunday, February 10, when Irish band Dervish return to Saltaire - their favourite British venue, they say. To book ring (01274) 588614.