Touring her third album at just 20 years old,  it’s encouraging to see Birdy’s evolution from young cover artist to confident songwriter and performer.  Her own style and voice is prominent in her new album, Beautiful Lies. With echoes of Lorde, Lana Del Ray and a sprinkling of Kate Bush, whose song 'Running Up That Hill' makes a wonderful appearance in her live performance of 'Silhouette', Birdy has developed a unique and interesting voice that can keep up with the most exciting and talented female artists.

"She acknowledged the audience in the same fashion she approaches her music, both with simplicity and effectiveness"

The show opened with panpipes, paving the way for the rest of the musicians to take their places on stage. Birdy herself stayed in darkness playing piano, not revealing herself until she sang the first song of the night ‘Shadow’. She said very little to her audience. Other than introducing her band, she said ‘I’m so happy to be in Gateshead, thanks for having me’. She acknowledged the audience in the same fashion she approaches her music, both with simplicity and effectiveness. She did, however, offer a small insight about her new album, declaring 'Unbroken' her favourite track.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPzQ49tEmx0

For Birdy, everything is about simplicity, about beautiful melodies and a haunting voice. This rings true with her recent album . Her voice, alluring as ever, was accompanied by a wonderful six-piece band, including herself on piano. She played fan favourites ‘People help the people’, ‘Wings’ and ‘Skinny love’ - all of which were met with a great reaction from the audience.

"Hers is not a typical gig, there’s no heckling or audience participation, but a beautiful celebration of good music"

Although differing in style, Birdy and her support act Dan Owen, wowed the crowd with their incredible voices and musicianship. Dan Owen played a particularly special cover of ‘Little Red Rooster’, playing both the guitar and harmonica. Birdy thanked the young and talented star for opening the show so beautifully before inviting him back on stage to sing her duet, 'Let it all go', originally sang by herself and artist Rhodes.

The artist, with her very simple beauty, had her long hair flowing and wore an understated but sensational long black dress. The only real dramatics throughout the show were some beautiful lighting and a very enthusiastic violinist. Hers is not a typical gig, there’s no heckling or audience participation, but a beautiful celebration of good music. She ended with ‘Keeping your head up’ inviting a full standing ovation. A fitting end to an enchanting show.