IT was turn of banjo-playing improvising musician, songwriter, vocalist and humanitarian Abigail Washburn to perform for the Cluny faithful and, with five splendid players behind her, that’s exactly what she did.

Formerly with the all-girl band Uncle Earl, the eversmiling Washburn was in the company of fellow band member Rayna Gellert (fiddle), Crooked Still act Britanny Hess and recent addition and huge inspiration musically, Kai Welch (guitar, vocals), Jimmy Dick (drums) and Jerry Engle (upright, electric bass).

The Illinois-born act pulled from not only her Appalachian roots, but her love of Chinese and Tibetan influences.

Of the highlights, Washburn was particularly strong on the gospel delight Divine Bell, as Welch led the band through the tune.

With no one wanting the entertainment to end, Washburn stayed long enough to perform soulful gospel piece Bright Morning Stars. A traditional cappella-sung composition rounded off with a beautiful twin-fiddle work, it brought the evening to a fitting close.

Maurice Hope