Another awesome LOUD WOMEN night last night! A really mixed line-up this one – just the way we like it! Samey line-ups are for boys.

Jenn Hart kicked us off, with the launch of her new book of poetry, ‘Watch Your Mouth’. Her poetry is warm, funny, touching, personal and political. She’s engaging in her delivery too – unsurprisingly so, as her old band Viva Zapata were stunning at last year’s LOUD WOMEN Fest. Hope to hear lots more poetry and music from Jenn soon! You can order a copy of the book online direct from Jenn here.

Next up was the charmingly bonkers Velodrome. And what a treat! Orchestrated by Kate Evans, the band was a motley crew of  musician friends she’d assembled that day, some meeting for the first time half an hour before the show, and joined by Kate’s Dad on keyboard. Throughout the set Kate floated between acoustic and electric guitar, and bass,  seemingly at a moment’s whim. Her assembled troupe looked to her for guidance throughout as she led them with nods and winks through the songs. It really shouldn’t have worked … but it definitely did! Kate’s stunning voice held the entire piece together – she sounds more like Kate Bush than Kate Bush does these days. The songs were beautiful, but don’t ask me what they were about – I was too distracted by the animal oven glove backing singers, and unicorn trousers. How exciting that Kate has just joined our all-time faves Dream Nails on bass, and is about to head off on a European tour with them! I’m really intrigued to hear how her voice will fit in with their sound too.

Third act was Wolf Girl, who I’ve been wanting to see for ages – and they were well worth the wait! A really strong set of garagey poppy punk, solidly delivered, and catchy tunes. I particularly enjoyed watching Christabel’s drumming – she was rocking the fuck out, but with such a calm and serene expression. Want to see these again, they deserved a much bigger crowd!

Last on was Hot Sauce Pony, a fairly new band who really should be playing much bigger gigs. Their sound is really unique – I’d like someone more eloquent to describe it for me – but it was all tasty layers of sonic goodness … trip-hopping drums, crunchy bass, chimey guitar, and beautiful soprano vox over the top. Again, really want to see these again in a bigger venue.

A top fun night, lots of friends in, and £22.50 raised in the raffle for Women’s Aid – hurray!