The Shires

02 Guildhall Southampton

THE first ever English Country act to be signed to a major Nashville label, The Shires are singer- songwriters Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes.

In just three years, the duo have supported The Corrs, US Country band Little Big Town, played Glastonbury, and performed at the mother church of country, The Grand Ol’Oprey. Not to mention they became the first British Country Band to reach the top ten UK album chart, with their debut album Brave.

Thank goodness they found each other via Facebook.

A near capacity crowd were very appreciative of the support act Canaan Smith from Virginia USA – his debut album ‘Bronco’ is one to look out for. Break out track ‘Love You Like That’ was well received as was his friendly, revealing chats between his songs, which set everyone up nicely for Ben & Crissie.

Ben's musical talents on the piano and guitar, and shared lead vocals with Crissie are impressive. Her vocals are extraordinary, both strong and sensitive. Their harmonies and choice of material work extremely well together and they really don't need the overpowering background sound.

With a mixture of slow and up tempo songs, the crowd were on their feet for the toe tapping rousing Tonight.

The highlight of the evening was Daddy’s Little Girl – I can only imagine The Queen of Country Ms Parton would approve of this beautiful ballad. In tribute to Crissie’s late father, it was intimate and reflective.

The happy crowd were treated to three encore songs after singing to the duo to come back to the stage,

The Shires continue their UK tour but surely, next stop is the British Country Music Awards. Nominations for The Shires are hugely expected, and well deserved too.

JENNY GREENWOOD