Summertyne Americana Festival, Sage Gateshead

THIS year’s SummerTyne Americana Festival may not have been bursting at the seams with exciting new acts, but thanks to a bunch of performers more determined to make a name for themselves it was another huge success.

On Saturday, bluesman Lucky Peterson put on a show to remember. The biggest draw of the weekend was Imelda May, looking slim and ready to sing till she dropped. Regulars Mary Chapin Carpenter and Gretchen Peters also ensured the crowds were well rewarded. Ward Thomas provided support for Striking Matches to play their part. But they weren’t as exciting as bluegrass act The Hillbenders, who did two sets, the second being an intriguing version of The Who’s rock opera, Tommy.

For sheer quality Hall two’s afternoon concert from Noel McKay and Brennen Leigh plus Kelly Willis and Bruce Robison was the best when it came to songwriters. Alison Krauss sideman Ron Block and Sierra Hull showed wonderful skill respectively on guitar, banjo and mandolin, but failed to generate real excitement.

The free concourse stage saw the West Virginia a cappella act start off and strong performances from Jess And the Bandits, singer-songwriter Amelia White (Nashville) and Flats And Sharps.

Once again the Jumpin’ Hot Outdoor Stage had an abundance of riches on offer. The most impressive were rock’n’roll country act Mary Jean Lewis And Her Lowmen and Nashville’s Eve Selis and the most colourful being the Urban Pioneers. Big-blues voiced Yola Carter was given the job of closing the show and she did herself proud.

Maurice Hope