STYLE: Jazz RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 7091-6870 LABEL: Independent FORMAT: CD Album RRP: £10.99
Reviewed by Tony Cummings
Top quality sleeve design (from Andy himself) indicates that this is no low budget demo from a singer/songwriter with more hope than wisdom. Musically, too, this is a long way from the introspective musings or stylised praise and worship of many independent releases. In fact, with contributions from jazz saxman Nick Beston (Take 5 and NBQ) and Stan Mayersky’s winning ways on Hammond and grand it’s jazz which colours many of the tracks here, though Andy wouldn’t claim to be an out-and-out jazzo. What he is is a thoughtful observer of the carnival of life and whether he’s penning his observations of a shivering child in Belgrade (“Princess In The Park”), the quiet still voice of God (“Today”) or a hint of glory to come (“Dreams of A Homecoming”). Andy’s lyrics are decidedly poetic. At times they appear a bit too wordy and seldom rhyme (or indeed scan too well). But usually it works and his dry, world-weary voice suits the laid back mood of haunting poignancy perfectly. These songs were written in the shelled remains of the former Yugoslav Republics where London-born Andy made his home for seven years. Yet despite the occasional bleak image his message is continually suffused with transcendent hope.
The opinions expressed in this article are
not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed
views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may
not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a
later date.
Interested in reviewing music? Find out
more here.
This track data is supplied by the Cross Rhythms CD/DVD review library. Please note that CD tracks may vary
according to release region or product version.
Posted by angel - anna in stowmarket suffolk @ 13:27 on Oct 31 2005
I heard this cd by ex prisoner who gave himself to the Lord
whilst inside prison this year. (He heard Andy whilst in
prison.) I am member of CMA (Christian Motorbikes..) this is
how I met with this ex prisoner who is as a bro.
I haven't been able to stop playin this cd..truly gifted
musician and writer..
unique style - am sharing it with sons and christians and
MORE importantly non- christians as its just so REAL -
mellow and great dance beat (have to get up an dance on
those ones).
When's your next album out Andy fella? Such
encouragement..God Bless you.
angel x
I heard this cd by ex prisoner who gave himself to the Lord whilst inside prison this year. (He heard Andy whilst in prison.) I am member of CMA (Christian Motorbikes..) this is how I met with this ex prisoner who is as a bro.
I haven't been able to stop playin this cd..truly gifted musician and writer..
unique style - am sharing it with sons and christians and MORE importantly non- christians as its just so REAL - mellow and great dance beat (have to get up an dance on those ones).
When's your next album out Andy fella? Such encouragement..God Bless you.
angel x