Narberth-born rising star Jodie Marie treated an audience of family, friends and fans to a fantastic performance at the Druidstone Hotel, near Broadhaven, last Friday evening.

Jodie moved from acoustic guitar to tambourine to the Wurlitzer electric piano as each song required, accompanying her powerful, pure voice. The soulful singer-songwriter was joined by the incredibly talented Tom Sinnett on bass and backing vocals and Jack Beddis on drums (both from Milford Haven), with virtuoso Jimmy Brewer on electric guitar and backing vocals.

From her debut CD, Mountain Echo, Jodie Marie sang 'Numb', 'On the Road', 'Dandelion Wishes', 'Like A Runaway' (co-written with Ed Harcourt), 'What Would It Take', 'I Got You', 'Single Blank Canvas' and 'Remember Me'.

The band's performance was inspiring; the vocals completely flawless; the songs timeless, emotional and mature.

Jodie and her band proved more than equal to the task of covering Elton John's 'I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues', which they made their own. Later they covered 'Fire and Water' by the band Free. They also performed many new songs from Jodie Marie's forthcoming album. These were very bluesy in nature, and the influence of Bonnie Raitt could be heard. Particularly enjoyable was "the drinking song".

The cosy, firelit atmosphere of the coast-clinging Druidstone Hotel added to the intimate, friendly feel of this inexpensive concert. Friday was Jack the drummer's first gig with Jodie Marie, and he was also celebrating his birthday, so the audience all sang 'Happy Birthday'. After the concert there was plenty of opportunity to chat to Jodie.

Of all the musicians embarking on their careers, I do not know of any more talented or engaging as Jodie Marie and her band - and yet to many reading this, she will be remembered as the girl from Ysgol Dyffryn Taf. It is a unique privilege to experience such greatness in such a local context.