There was an Englishman, a Scotsman and an Irishman... Shoreham welcomed a super group to the Ropetackle and for two hours were held spellbound by their virtuostic wizardry and enchanting melodies.

Michael McGoldrick, the Englishman, played the uilleann pipes and Irish flute; John McCusker, the Scot, played the fiddle and cittern; and John Doyle provided the rhythm guitar that held it all together and sang the songs tenderly.

There were jigs and reels as well as songs, providing a rich variety that constantly lifted the spirit. The trio have been touring for five weeks, so this performance was well honed and some of the playing was at dazzling tempos. Feet were stomping throughout the room and then a beautiful song, such as Leaving Friday Harbour, would calm everyone to a still place.

The material was both traditional and self-penned in equal measure. Introductions were informative and often humorous.

McCusker and McGoldrick have been touring and recording with Mark Knopfler. They are the best there is at what they do and they proved it, finishing with Bonnie Light Horseman and a deserved standing ovation.