"Cross between a concert and Loose Women" - CMAT, Rough Trade East 13/10/23

I almost didn't make it to see CMAT at Rough Trade East tonight - a delayed flight back from a holiday followed by torrential rain just as it hit time to leave, didn't put me in the best mood. But, it was very much worth it.

Performing on the release day of her second album, 'CrazyMad, For Me', it was a stripped back set: just the Irish singer and her guitar, and a lot of audience participation. After opening with 'California', she put the setlist out to the floor, with the crowd shouting out their favourites. It was a great chaotic energy between her and her fans and she had us in the palm of her hand. A highlight was the person three-Aperols-deep offering to buy CMAT a G&T!

But back to the music. The simplicity of being on stage with just an acoustic guitar showed how powerful and emotive CMAT's voice is. 'No More Virgos' and 'Where Are Your Kids Tonight?' (her fab duet with John Grant) got the crowd going, climaxing with everyone two-stepping to 'I Wanna Be a Cowboy, Baby!' (even the moustachioed hipster bois got involved).

A barn-stormer of a gig. I just wish it was longer.

Photo: Sarah Doyle

CMAT is on tour throughout 2023-2024. 'CrazyMad, For Me' is available now.