So there I am with lensman John Bull at the start of the Cadogan Hall-hosted Under The Apple Tree one-day festival of roots music in London. The first act is setting up to play with her accompanying guitarist.This is in the upper area as opposed to the downstairs main stage. “ She’s going to look pretty good with the stained glass windows backdrop “ I suggest as I locate my notebook and the photographer gets to work. And oh that voice! Gentle but pure and persuasive and the songs well-crafted. Harris beams with happiness, what better way to kick off his special day? I remember it all well – despite my later dive into the eyes of siren Judith Owen that day…..

For a sweet young Irish lass to come up with a song title like Hell Would Have To Freeze Over. He must have been bit of a jerk, I surmise. This lead track has sprightly acoustic guitar and a forceful country-inflected vocal. “I’m putting me first “ she intones and she means it. If you like Ward Thomas you are sure to enjoy this number. Incidentally guitars are by Jon Maguire and site pal Marcus Bonfanti!

Cinderella is altogether gentler with vocal pitched to suit. She does have lovely voice and here she tells of heartbreak but a fragment of hope. Evokes early Taylor Swift and that is a compliment. This melody is a classic ad she will be able to list this on all shows for all time, I reckon.

She’ll Never Love You is a composition from Catherine, Maguire and Paddy Dalton is steady-chorded and assured. She paces herself really well, the lyric is an attempt at assertion which we and Catherine know just won’t get home.

Say You Love Me is written by the dreaded – well, to me – Ed Sheeran and pals, taken at a jaunty pace and with a semi-breathy vocal delivery. It’s sort of catchy but I refer the other cuts.

With her live performances gaining strength but that Irish charm for now retained, McGrath is a welcome addition to the singer songwriter scene.

Pete Sargeant