The show began with a brilliant performance by the eccentric and wonderful Patti Plinko and her Boy. Patti won the audience pretty quickly with her rich voice, ukulele and with a je ne se quoi dark charm evocative of more seductive times and smoky cabarets.

Not far behind, her Boy anonymous behind his gas mask, was the perfect support with his guitar. Nostalgic but with a twist, I was swinging all the way.

The Puppini Sisters then glossed up the stage with their fancy 40’s ways… and they entertained. The three sisters, Marcella, Kate, and Steph certainly had a crowd of followers last night at the Sheperds Bush Empire all singing along their chorus and moving to their music. The sisters didn’t disappoint, as not only their close harmony vocals were spot on, but they also played the accordion, violin and yes a toy piano brilliantly; constant coordinated dancing included. Indeed, an energetic performance, well stringed by humorous remarks and great vibe. If not particularly innovative, their interpretations included the much-adored Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, Kate Bush’s Wuthering Heights, and the Italian nostalgia of Tu Vuo' Fa' L'Americano and finishing the night off with Walk like an Egyptian. They’ve just released their new album “The Rise and Fall of Ruby Woo”, and were awarded Gold for their first release. Well done ladies!