Rachel Sermanni, Museum of the Moon, St Giles

The Burns & Beyond week has seen the capital overflowing with arts events that are more or less bard-related.  The centrepiece has been the spectacular Museum of the Moon in St Giles' Cathedral, with a variety of musicians playing under a giant lunar sphere suspended from the vaulting arches above.  Tonight was the turn of singer/songwriter Rachel Sermanni, a bright cooky presence on stage with a sweet, soft and wide ranging voice backed up by intricate guitar accompaniment.  She was joined on stage for several numbers by keyboard player Jennifer Austin of Fara fame.

Opening with a very individual interpretation of Ae Fond Kiss, and ending up on a moving rendition of Flow gently, Sweet Afton established the Burns links.  In between she sang old and new material from her own pen, with as many references to the moon as she could cram in.  Her lyrics are smart, emotional, personal, there are some striking melodies, and all delivered in those gorgeous sweet vocals.  Slightly crazy, in a good way, she interacts well with her audience, her quirky personality shining through (a set list written on a paper cup - why not?).

Excellent entertainment in a striking setting.