BEING widely tipped as a rising star of the folk scene can make performers hit and run.

Many artists now deified, Nick Drake chief among them, could not cope with their fear of success. Yet McGee's personable performance and smiling manner betray one not likely to throw away her ample talent.

Her many experiences are etched in her material.

Whether conceived in Crawley, Spain, or a red brick estate in Manchester, McGee has the ability to turn very personal, mundane happenings into songs with a universal quality.

Best of all was Coffee Coloured Strings, where her songwriting reaches another level.

Although the strange magic of the lyrics was almost spoiled by the pre-song explanation, this will be a signature tune she may struggle to better.

Her unobtrusively poetic love songs had a wistful air,borne skyward by her warm voice and clear melodies.

The title track of her second album, Frost, was both original and effective. Mat Martin's spare, unshowy accompaniment on guitar, banjo and mandolin complemented the mood perfectly.

McGee really hit her stride in the second half with aseries of excellent songs in a more traditional mode.

Her closest contemporary could be Gillian Welch, the revivalist American folk singer who also covers the number that ended the purple patch, Make Me A Palette On Your Floor.

The tunes were firmly nestled in the easy flowing rivulets of Radio Two folk, and natural images abound. The evening's only doubt was how long this restless soul will linger in such safe waters.

Updated: 11:03 Friday, January 21, 2005