John Shand Posts

May 29, 2018 / Album Reviews - Archive

IN PARIS (Resonance/Birdland) 8/10 Wes Montgomery always stood out from the welter of jazz guitarists who emerged in Charlie Christian’s wake. Using his thumb (rather than a plectrum) he developed the warmest sound: a bronze tone that was equally effective on tender ballads or for lighting sudden spot-fires amidst his…

May 27, 2018 / Theatre Reviews - Archive

SBW Stables, May 11, until June 16 2/10 Oh, dear. Somehow this play sneaked all the way to the stage without someone whispering, “It’s not ready.” While not entirely without merit, that merit adorns a small proportion of what is only a 70-minute work, anyway. Otherwise it is beleaguered with…

May 26, 2018 / Theatre Reviews - Archive

Ensemble Theatre, May 10, until June 9 8/10 “I know the film and play, so why bother?” you ask. Because Sharon Millerchip is not playing Shirley Valentine, she’s living her. Because performances of such comprehensive truth are rare in Sydney. Because here’s a chance to see every flex of a…