Blueflint, Pleasance

Deborah Arnott and Clare Neilson have been singing and playing banjo together for over a decade, either as a duo or fronting their band Blueflint.  The latter have three excellent albums behind them, with a fourth on it's way later this year, and won exposure to a wider audience when they supported The Proclaimers on tour a couple of years ago.

For tonight's gig they were accompanied by their solid rhythm section of Ruiaridh Saunders on drums and Hugh Kelly on double bass, with Jo Jeffries guesting on fiddle.  The arrangements were kept simple, bringing the quality of the songwriting to the forefront.  With influences coming from country, folk and pop, they have mastered the art of writing catchy melodies and lyrics, the latter showing both depth and humour.  Subjects range from the personal to social comment to the odd murder ballad.

Both Debs and Clare have pleasant voices, at their best when combining to create some beautiful harmonies, and both regale the audience with enjoyable stories about the origins of their songs.  A Blueflint gig is always a guarantee of a satisfyingly entertaining night out.