Some 16 instruments waited on stage for the arrival of Fay Hield and her four-strong band on Saturday. It was a sure sign of a busy evening ahead.

The group kicked off with the sprightly Wicked Serpent, an American folk song about two lovers killed by a single snake bite. It was followed by the gory “death ballad for children” Naughty Baby, which told of a terrifying giant who feasts on “naughty people”.

But the atmosphere was far from grim – indeed, the nervous laughter inspired by the second song was shared by those on stage. And there was more to come, from the jolly Mad Family to a sublime rendition of Tom Waits’ The Briar And The Rose.

The Hurricane Party comprises four of the British folk scene’s most talented musicians and they made full use of their skills (and many instruments) in a variety of inspired arrangements, from the dense, complex fairy ballad Sir Orfeo to the simple, sweet harmonies of Pretty Nancy.

To say Hield was a match for her band would be quite a compliment, then. She brought stillness and focus to the set in commanding style.

Her voice was distinctive, strong and sensitive, and her phrasing exquisite. With such thoughtfully chosen and interpreted songs, you couldn’t wish for more.