This month's Unplugged Session was a real eye opener for those witnessing the talents of Kerry Leatham, Hannah Rose, Ava Leigh, Bryn Christopher and Bashy for the first time. Stratford Circus served as the perfect venue to host the eclectic line up. Guests stepped in from the sharp evening air and into a warm and welcoming space; the candle lit tables and ambient jazz set a defining tone for the evening's entertainment.

Kerry Leatham was a perfect opening act. In a simple chequered shirt, jeans and plimsolls she gave a heartfelt performance. The melancholic ‘Run Dry' evoked a somber mood, as soul fans pondered unrequited love and younger attendees cast their minds back to the ‘Adulthood' soundtrack. Kerry's evocative words and passion-filled vocals complemented her acoustic guitar work. She kept the soul coming with performances of ‘Social Structure' and ‘Polaroid', backed by the live band. Later that evening, Kerry returned to the stage, at the behest of Bashy, to duet on ‘Permanent Scars'.

Hannah's vocal flair and no-nonsense attitude brought the story behind her words to life.

Proceedings continued on a soulful vibe. Northern songbird Hannah Rose was a gift to those who like their soul spicy. She built intimacy with the audience with her cheeky lyrics and quirky responses to the boyish jeers at her accent. Hannah's vocal flair and no-nonsense attitude brought the story behind her words to life. Ava Leigh was also on fine form, delivering the melodic lead single, the reggae-tinged ‘La La La', and a selection of album tracks that hinted at a vocal depth beyond her pop status.

The pace quickened post interval as Bashy got everybody up on their feet. The UK urban star swapped the gritty baselines and melodies of his usual music for the rich sounds of the live band, Tomorrow's Warriors. Fans anticipating his album ‘Catch Me If You Can' caught ear of forthcoming track, ‘Before Before', inspiring the mandatory "Braps" and "Zoops" from those who could relate to "Two burgers and two fries at Sam's".

The energy in the building was at its peak as soul and R&B singer Bryn Christopher was cheered on. The Polydor protégé was more than lively enough to keep the place buzzing, dropping tune after tune, including ‘The Quest' and ‘Smiling', before throwing caution to the wind with one of the best covers of Chaka Khan ‘Ain't Nobody'. Bryn did the tune more than justice, paying respect to a great soul classic and rounding up a brilliant night.

WORDS: WILLIAM OKOBI