Young Sidney Bechet 1923-1925 - Sidney Bechet

Advantages: Great jazz tunes from the Golden Age
Disadvantages: None

...This is real jazz, from the real Golden Age of Jazz. It's got the pace, the rhythm, the fluid trumpet playing, the relentlessly enthusiastic, rolling piano playing and the clear diction of some excellent singing of vocalists who could not only hold a tune, but who could capture your heart and soul, too… There's musicians with such great names as Muggsy Spanier, Meade Lux Lewis, King Oliver and Sidney Bechet. You do not get musicians called Muggsy nowadays. I wonder why? As well as straight out jazz such as the Dippermouth blues, there's also the dreamy and melodic April in Paris from Charlie Parker. Some jazz aficionados reckon that Charlie Parker eventually sold out. Well, perhaps he did. But some of his earlier work still stands the test of time. Jack Teagarden is on this CD, with So Many Times, a rather nice, well... Read review

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Advantages: Mysticism
Disadvantages: Moaning

...-literal grumbling. Even to a heathen like myself, these have a sunny and heartfelt sincerity which rings far truer than his misanthropic moaning. 'See Me Through Part II (Just a Closer Walk with Thee)' is based on the traditional hymn, sung gospel-style. Van adds, magically, an invocation of his Belfast origins and musical roots - from Sidney Bechet to Hank Williams. Several more conventional love songs also help redress the balance. 'Carrying a Torch', 'Green Mansions', and 'Quality Street' are tender ballads, wrapping pastoral imagery in organ, piano and lush synthesisers. 'I Can't Stop Loving You' plants a soulful version of the Don Gibson standard firmly in Celtic soil with the Chieftains' violins, pipes and whistles. Don't look for great originality here. Several of the songs are retreads of others in the Morrison songbook, and the musical... Read review

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Advantages: Young Knives goodness!
Disadvantages: just a mini album :(

...I think this is the first offering from the Young Knives, unfortunately a mini album, with just 7 angsty-energetic tracks, which needless to say, could each easily hold its own. The album takes a few listens, but is definitely a real grower; and its very rare for it to not be on repeat on my ipod. 'walking on the autobahn' was an instant favourite of mine, as was 'the night of the trees' but my favourite track has to be 'john'. I fact every song on this album has a certain 'charm' to it-thats the only word i think can sum them up! these guys put so much energy into their performance and are just amazing, they really know how to play! Its hard to compare the young knives, but they are part of the indie/punk vibe and i guess if you like the futureheads, then it is guarenteed you will love them. expect big things...... Read review

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