Attending the Folk at The Froize felt like stepping into a world where folklore and fairytales come to life, all thanks to the mesmerising performance by Ainsley Hamill, accompanied by the exceptionally talented Sam Kelly and Toby Shaer. From the moment Ainsley began her set with the haunting “Lament of the Water Horse” sung in Gaelic, the entire audience was spellbound, transported to mythical landscapes by the sheer power of her voice—a voice often described as an orchestra of angels, and in this performance, she truly lived up to that reputation.

Switching effortlessly between Gaelic and English, Ainsley had the crowd hanging on every word, her voice evoking vivid imagery and deep emotions. Her glittering gold jacket shimmered under the stage lights, reflecting the beauty of her performance. The way she engaged with the audience, sharing the inspirations behind her songs added a personal and intimate touch to the evening. 

The support from Sam Kelly was equally noteworthy, his rich vocals and skilful bouzouki playing blending harmoniously with Ainsley’s voice. Toby Shaer completed the trio with his exceptional guitar and flute playing, creating a tapestry of sound that was both intricate and captivating.

One of the highlights of the night was when Ainsley performed “Machir Bay,” a whisky-inspired tune that had everyone spellbound. The crowd couldn’t resist joining in when she led them through a rousing rendition of “Leave Her Johnny,” showing just how engaged and connected everyone felt.

The evening wasn’t just a feast for the ears but for the taste buds as well. During the interval, guests were treated to an array of delightful desserts, including fresh apricot crumble, very sherry trifle, panna cotta, rich, dark chocolate mousse and a strawberry and raspberry bombe. These sweet treats were the perfect complement to the mouth-watering feast prepared by David Grimwood and the Froize team earlier in the evening. From the smoky richness of the haddock kedgeree to the hearty venison and ale stew, every dish was a testament to the culinary skills of the team, enhanced by fresh vegetables and salads from the Froize garden.

The second half of the performance continued to charm, opening with another Gaelic piece that showcased Ainsley’s ethereal vocal qualities. Her song “Angels’ Share,” inspired by the evaporation of whisky in barrels, was a particular standout, as her voice floated effortlessly, much like the whiskey vapours themselves.

Ainsley’s ability to connect with the audience through her stories and songwriting was a joy to witness. Tracks like “Belle” had everyone singing along, while “Not Just Ship Land” offered a poignant reflection that resonated deeply with the crowd. The night culminated in a heartwarming, upbeat performance of “Beamer Puirt,” leaving everyone on a high note.

It’s no surprise that the event was a sell-out. The combination of Ainsley Hamill’s angelic voice, the flawless musicianship of Sam Kelly and Toby Shaer, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere at The Froize made for an unforgettable evening. Those who were lucky enough to attend will surely remember it for years to come.

Thanks again to Christabel Muir for the photography.