Reviewed by Andy Cooper

This is the third CD release from Brit Tim's jazz outfit, and the first to include actually five musicians (Henry George joins with guitar on three tracks). It's basically an album of jazz standards, including some choice Gershwin, and others such as "My Funny Valentine", "Sweet Georgia Brown" and "Sunny Side Of The Street". It's that familiarity that makes this collection all the more endearing: the songs are treated with respect and the melody is allowed to shine (no Chick Corea tangential meanderings thankfully). Tim's piano, sax and clarinet solos (how can one man master so many instruments?) are all tasteful, soulful and expressive.and not too long. Meanwhile Ben Newton's bass (electric and upright) and Tom Early's drums provide a firm foundation with just about the right amount of flair and flourish, though an early drum solo in the opener "Get Happy" is a bit of a surprise. Kirsty Mitchell provides the greatest share of the vocals and has good pitch and diction, and finds some cool blue notes, but unfortunately during the quieter numbers such as "When I Fall In Love", she sounds a little tense and cold. The ideal female jazz vocal should be as warm and comforting as a mother's embrace. Talented Tim's vocal, however, is a creamy delight in "The Summer Wind". Here is an entertaining collection good for a night in (or out) sharing drinks with friends: it's the kind of jazz set that everybody will enjoy.

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