Proper beer has returned to the Water Rats. I can't remember the last time the Spitfire pumpclip wasn't turned to the wall. Suddenly the Water Rats is a much better venue. Anna Calvi seems to bring good karma to venues, all the little niggles which occur at various venues seem to disappear when she plays. I don't think it can really be down to her, but the way she takes the trouble to put her stage time and venue details on myspace makes the evening immediately relaxed. Tonight I know that I don't have to rush down for 7pm to be sure of catching the band, and I know I have plenty of time to get down to the Metro for Bleech headlining. Amongst all the special bands I have enjoyed this year I am still finding Anna Calvi particularly special. And the Spitfire was worth waiting for too.