Initially This is the Kit seemed very English and reserved.
Opening with only voice and banjo, and with an earnest but engaging stage persona, and references to Alan Bennett and tank tops, Kate Stables drew us into a mesmerising and gentle world.
There were echoes of The Incredible String Band but the band had a strong character of its own.
A delightful if not quirky folk-rock ambience occasionally became more rock than folk: Silver John (from their latest album) had more vitality than the studio version, and with the songs that followed gave an energy boost to the set.
Enjoying the band, and the inventive sound-wash of the guitar interludes, but frustrated by a tendency for some songs to finish too suddenly, I was left wanting more.
While their Wikipedia page mentioned hints of Fleet Foxes and Beach Boys, support act Cristobal and the Sea offered an attractive blend of Latin, ska, and euro-folk, topped by a dreamy jazz flute.
With thoughtful intertwining harmonies from the three singers, and a lively but relaxing and warm sound, it was surprising and rather sad that the audience did not return that warmth.
Four stars
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