STYLE: Jazz RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 12527-1753 LABEL: Independent FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1
Reviewed by Andrew Segal
An up-tempo trad jazz start from the UK group with the tune "Peter's Son" sets a lively pace to the dozen numbers on this predominantly instrumental CD. And very quickly one hears that this is a band that, to borrow a phrase from a television advert, "does exactly what it say on the tin" - but in addition to that phrase: "does it rather well". Despite the trad jazz beginning and its later re-emergence, there are many moods and styles throughout, with the track "Somewhere In Between" making itself standout in particular as it meanders pleasantly along with a slow, modern easy-listening groove (think Jamie Cullum minus the vocals). Tom Early shows himself a true jazz drummer during a bit of a work-out early on during the CD's brisk title track. Mr Boniface himself proves a soulful multi-instrumentalist on piano, guitar and saxophone. I won't even ask if he does all this on stage! All the while, delightfully groove-full bassist Ben Newton keeps two very steady hands at the lower end of the music's proceedings, never too brash or understated. Finishing off with a slow blues-laden number, "Faith", the band's recent vocal addition, Kirsty Mitchell, adds her talents. Clearly a group aware that they are finishing one chapter in their musical life and are already looking forward to their next gig, CD or even just jam.
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.