The phenomenal talents of the three local Nottingham girls, Indiana, Nina Smith and Natalie Duncan were showcased at #Nottinghamrocks – the music event named after our hashtag for the trending campaign – in the Theatre Royal on Saturday night.

Starting the night was Indiana who has appeared on the BBC’s The Beat. We are told in the program that she is being chased by record companies for her signature and as soon as she starts to sing it’s clear why. Her voice is superb, fluctuating between fragile and soft like Ellie Golding and raw and powerful. She is an emotional performer and her songs are incredibly moving and have a great depth. Amongst my favourites were her first, called Found and her cover of Frank Ocean’s Swim Good. She draws you into the songs and makes you forget you’re in a theatre and that is the best sign of a powerful performance. A definite ten out of ten.

Next was Nina Smith who released her debut EP Lonely Hearts Club in 2011. She had a natural stage presence and a wonderful voice that effortlessly scaled the notes. Starting with “Sexy Surprise” (which I haven’t stopped listening to since) she relished having the on stage orchestra and looked as though she was thoroughly enjoying herself. She gave a fantastic performance and at one point invited a choir to join her in a cover of “Everybody Hurts” with a twist.

Natalie Duncan took hold of the second half. Signed to Universal, the 23-year-old has a critically acclaimed album and is tipped for big things. Her style is soulful and jazzy and she has a spectacular voice, really smoky and mature. She was brilliant to watch, a formidable talent both in singing and song writing.

By Harriet Thacker