John Shand Posts

August 3, 2016 / Album Reviews - Archive

SO FRENCHY SO CHIC (Cartell) 6.5/10 The French have a way of brushing more lightly against the world than other races. They favour wit over broader comedy, elegance in aesthetics and aerated foods like souffle and choux pastry. French music ranges from delicate 18th-century minuets to the sonic massage of…

August 2, 2016 / Album Reviews - Archive

ARTEFACT (jeremysawkins.com) 7/10 If life has you grinding your teeth down to stumps, this may be the antidote. The opening Blues For Sera has such a relaxed, loping swing that you can’t help but exhale deeply in a contented sort of way, and think things aren’t too bad. A bass…

July 29, 2016 / Concert Reviews - Archive

Foundry 616, July 8 8/10 If a carnation could sing it might sound something like Steve Ross: light, mellifluous and guileless. His was never a big voice, but nor has the New York cabaret singer/pianist lost much power or range now he is of a certain age. Suave, agile and…