Josh Rouse, Union Chapel - review

In a drafty church on a chilly January evening, a soothing winter warmer of a show was always going to be well received.

Josh Rouse moved from Nashville to Valencia several years ago and life in Spain is reflected in the laid-back new album, Josh Rouse and The Long Vacations. This underrated songwriter has even done his bit to boost employment in Spain's struggling economy by hiring a pair of local musicians, including a drummer who managed to keep a beat while playing banjo.

On Lazy Days, the trio filled the church with undulating harmonies on a tune that sounded like The Kinks recently awoken from a siesta, and there was a balmy quality to the banjo and harmonica during To the Clock, To the City.

Amidst a bare stage and light show consisting of a bumper pack of tealights, it threatened to get too relaxed. The cardigan-clad Rouse was certainly not the most excitable frontman, yet when he caressed his guitar and produced an understated vocal he revealed the naked emotion in these songs.

Flight Attendant was meandering but mesmerising and the haunting 1972 had the audience hanging on every word.

Sunshine won the day, though, with bossa nova on Fine, Fine and happy clapping in the pews during the glorious Winter in the Hamptons.