Album Review: BLACK GRASS - BLACK GRASS, Inertia IR5203CD. Reviewed by Tony Magee

Australian singer and songwriter Ra Khahn features as guest vocalist (and lyricist) on this fantastic debut album by British band Black Grass. It is on international release and is easily available from most good music retailers.

Here is a new definitive music style that finally leaves behind the boredom of techno (or duff duff as we sometimes call it) and instead settles into a stylish and comfortable dance medium blending real acoustic instruments in rich arrangements with pulsing, but well paced dance backing.

One of the cleverest aspects of this album is the opening. Striking orchestral strings burst forth in a dramatic series of chords, joined by pulsating percussion and then we are right into it with full rhythm section and baby - you're groovin! It's a great way to start any evening off that has to be fun, exciting and full of party atmosphere.

As for Ra Khahn's contribution, he sings two numbers - Going Home and The Finest Thing. Khahn has a very distinctive voice and a huge range. If you like Prince, Jamiroqui, Stevie Wonder - just to name three influences on him - you'll love Ra. It's fantastic to see a young and talented Australian artist do something with a British group (he had to move to London to do it). We’ll wait and see what happens next!

Oh, for the Rap people, there are three Rap numbers on this album. I'm not particularly fond of this medium, but that's just me. Overall though, I feel this is an outstanding first release and sets all concerned up for a great future, if they work hard and remain dedicated. Use this in funky bars and clubs, or very modern eateries.

First published in Restaurant and Catering Magazine, May 2004

Album Review: THE LOOK OF LOVE - DIANA KRALL, Verve 549 846-2, Reviewed by Tony Magee

Canadian singer Diana Krall's first sojourn into the commercial market, following previous albums where she sings in a modern jazz style, has catapulted her into the mainstream listening room with vengeance.

Also a fine jazz pianist, Krall combines these talents with sophisticated and beautiful arrangements utilising her band to create an album of sensuous jazz and latin moods.

The title track, The Look of Love is one of the highlights, here done as a bossa. I seem to remember that one originally as the title song for the 1967 James Bond spoof, Casino Royal.

Some other tracks include Gershwin's S'Wonderful, Love Letters, Johnny Mercer's I Remember You, a gorgeous version of Cry Me A River, the sensuous Besame Mucho, Dancing in the Dark (Fred and Ginger), I Get Along Without You Very Well, and Maybe You'll be Mine.

Diana Krall sings with a sultry, husky, sexy voice, reminiscent of Shirley Horn, over a cushion of sound created by her own piano playing and sensitive, evocative, rhythm section. The arrangements are all silky and smooth. This is truly ideal music for sophistos in classy little cocktail bars, restaurants and late night mood spots.

The photo display in the CD cover is another reason for buying this album. Ohhhhhhh! Sickening isn't It? Blessed with fabulous looks and fabulous talent. Maybe she's a terrible cook.

First published in Restaurant and Catering Magazine, May 2004