You could have heard a plectrum drop in Bury St Edmunds Apex last Friday evening. Such was the spell under which the audience was held, captivated by renowned Irish singer Cara Dillon and her wonderfully talented ensemble.
The performance was the penultimate one on the Coming Home tour, featuring material from her eighth solo album of the same name. The album, released a year ago, was the first to showcase entirely new and original material. Effortlessly blending spoken word, poetry and the sublime songwriting for which she is so well known.
This was a truly mesmerising performance. Stunning vocals and sensitive yet complex musical arrangements interspersed with poetic introductions and Cara’s own evocative memories of growing up in Northern Ireland’s County Derry. Music and spoken word played off each other in something of a conversation. A compelling and innovative fusion. Deeply personal tales from Cara’s childhood and reflections on life, about her parents and wider family, their customs and pastimes… a private glimpse into a remarkable and fascinating upbringing that has shaped her own family and artistry.
Towards the end of the evening, Cara’s husband and longtime musical collaborator Sam Lakeman, who accompanied her on both guitar and piano, told the audience that there was a certain sadness as they approached the end of their tour. He expressed how much they (Cara’s band: Sam, Nick Pini on Bass, Toby Shaer on fiddle/whistles/guitar and Liz Hanks on cello) would all miss being taken on a journey by Cara’s stories night after night. A feeling that was reciprocated by those lucky enough to have been in the audience that evening.
Cara’s storytelling took us from birth to death and beyond. Superlative songs such as Clear The Path, Mysteries, White Sheets, and Apron Strings, performed with her classic crystalline vocals, interwoven with beautiful and lyrical spoken-word segments that added context and depth to the music. It was an incredibly moving and evocative performance. A warm blanket and a soothing hot toddy to the soul. A nostalgic reminder to hold space to look back quietly into the past. And a hopeful nod to how one’s community and life experience informs the future.
The Apex made a fine partner for the evening. It’s relaxed, intimate space, superior acoustics and friendly staff were the perfect counterpart to the warmth and cosiness of Dillon’s performance. A very special evening.
Cara Dillon’s “Coming Home” tour can be seen at its last performance at the Minack Theatre in Cornwall on 25th July 2025. A collection of her memories, stories, and reflections are also available in her first book that was written to accompany her album of the same name.
Jane Herbert
