The Old Dance School, Bristol Folk House 8th April 2011

The cafe at the Folk House might make for a difficult gig, carrying as it does the suggestion of spotty tablecloths and polite conversation, dipping the lemon cake in tea while studiously ignoring the band.  But with a sound big enough to call to mind Bellowhead's saner moments, the seven members of The Old Dance School seemed blissfully unaware of any "venue issues". 

Support came from Gren Bartley, a Leicester-based singer-songwriter who has clearly imbibed deep from the flagon of Nick Drake.  Intelligent and carefully-strung lyrics warmed the crowd up nicely (oh, and "he's hot" - Mrs BRoutes).  Much of Gren's banter concerned his pie-eyed adoration for the main act, whom he had apparently petitioned to support on their tour.  Great things were expected...