I then had to dash off back to Chester but returned to probably the most interesting venue of all and some pretty special acts. St Giles Parish Church situated in the centre of Wrexham town is a real, historical landmark and I was told possesses huge acoustic quality. First to prove the point was the Wrexham Community Choir who enchanted the packed pews with glorious choral harmonies as the large group sang Welsh songs. This is what a community choir should be - just about all the age groups covered and massive enthusiasm.

The Gentle Good was up next and, perhaps not surprisingly, expected a band to appear. Instead just one lonesome male performer with an acoustic guitar called Gareth Bonello. Gareth gave one of the finest performance at Focus Wales 2012 with breathtaking guitar work, a beautifuly liquid vocal,Jimmy Hogarth and songs to warm the coldest of hearts. The sound quality of the church was in my experience one of the best I’ve heard anywhere, anytime and ensured that both acts sounded at their very best.

Heal The Last Stand have been in existence for a few years now and have a strong local following. For sure, I’ve rarely heard vocal harmonies as good as their’s and of their modern folk genre they’re up there with the best. My view is that while excellent every song sounded the same and the band still lack that expressive edge that clearly delineates happy from sad. But maybe that’s just me who prefers dark to light in all my music.

Jodie Marie is a 20-year-old singer/songwriter from Pembrokeshire, Wales and while I’ve read a little about her have never heard a note. I like surprises and those very special moments that occasionally surface in live shows. Jodie supplied both. Jimmy Hogarth, Ed Harcourt and Bernard Butler have all contributed to writing and producing her debut album which kinda hints that hopes are high for her. Certainly the young lady possesses a fine and distinctive voice along with a natural performing ability that incorporates the vital ability to communicate easily with her audience. Backed by a percussionist and guitarist Jodie gave a performance which prompted me to contact her record company for a copy of the album and a play-spot on my radio show. Jodie’s voice is definitely tinged with with the blues and has that darker edge that I referred to earlier in this piece.

My damaged back began dropping hints that I should go home and lie down which meant that rock gigs at Central Station had to be missed. I was impressed with Day 1 at Focus Wales which appeared to be very organised and very accessible. The young Welsh talent on show also impressed - all in all good reasons to look foward to day 2.