Review by Andrew Sugden and Eve Winterburn

Deep underground, magically removed from the city above, in an atmospheric cavern, the gig opened with compere John Waller’s a cappella ‘Ode to the Boar of Bradford’. 

John Waller, Compere

The ancients, rattling

John’s magical theatrical style drew the audience in, creating an immersive assembly, with audience members (unexpectedly) taking on unique characters in this Bradford tale of the ferocious Hog that lost its tongue

The audience cheered and laughed and applauded approvingly. The ancients in their bones rattled from behind the stage.

 It got everyone into the mood for Plumhall… and Nick and Michelle took to the stage with a beautiful set, a mix of their own delightful original music interspersed with a few Christmas tunes and folk favourites. 

Two unique voices blending into beautiful harmony. A balance of rhythmic optimism and wistful mellowness. A mix of acoustic and electric guitar (yes, you guessed it, Nick sneaked his electric guitar in). 

Michelle, with her one guitar, held the harmony and rhythms whilst Nick danced energetically, a tango of lead melodies with his four guitars (three acoustic). “Wonderful storytelling, banter and humour with full audience involvement, and great rhythm. I never stopped tapping my feet all the time,” said Eve. 

We had a lovely evening at the (nomadic) Topic Folk Club, in its temporary space at Wallers Brewery, an oval walled cavern deep underground, beneath the streets of Bradford. A magical place… and the acoustics were lovely. I think this could be an iconic new home for the Topic Folk Club.

Don't miss out on this fabulous duo, visit their webpage and see where they are playing in 2026 Here