Waxahatchee delivers an enchanting acoustic performance at Dalston Roof Park

Alabama native Waxahatchee is becoming an increasingly familiar face. You’ll find her bleach blonde hair lining the pages of websites and zines, mirroring the anticipation surrounding her sophomore album.

Cerulean Salt is due for release via Wichita Recordings on July 1st and, although nothing more than a lucky coincidence, its punk-infused sound is brilliantly timed for this country, as the genre continues to re-find its feet.

Her sell-out Shacklewell Arms show, with full band, was followed by a stripped-back set at Dalston Roof Park and, in a perfect moment of pathetic fallacy, sun was replaced by clouds for Katie Crutchfield’s appearance to the make-shift stage. Two things became immediately apparent: she has an effortless knack for simple, beautifully crafted songwriting and a voice that is gently beguiling.

Away from the punchy, scuzz of the record, the songs translated easily to this acoustic outing, with the likes of ‘Coast To Coast’ and ‘Swan Dive’ holding their pristine melancholy as well as the attention of the lucky handful in attendance; indeed the latter track was a real highlight. There is something of Elliot Smith about Waxahatchee’s honesty and underlying nostalgia, which worked so poignantly in this performance style.

Most impressively, Crutchfield had the presence and quality to avert eyes and ears from the settings somewhat intrusive fan, which whirred away inflating the roof above our heads. Delicate but immersive, it was an ideal remedy for the long week passed; enchanting stuff.

Photograph taken at Troxy, London 11/06/13 by Jason Williamson