I'd left my jazz hat in the back room of the Central Bar so no conflicting interests here. Instead I primed myself to enjoy a rather unique coupling - that of Raul Malo, former lead singer with The Mavericks, and the Northern Sinfonia.
It occurred to me that my mother (Madame Annie Rankin LRAM, ALCM, LLCM) may be turning in her grave at the thought of her beloved Sinfonia in such a setting - she preferred Grand Opera to Grand Ol' Opry! However, I'm sure that once she'd heard the lush string sounds emanating from the orchestra she may have given a qualified nod of approval!
The term Americana covers a very wide musical spectrum Cajun, Country, Appalachian, Gospel, Soul, Jazz, Blues and countless other sub-genre and tonight was most definitely Country.
Opening up with Indian Love Call (fortunately without any Slim Whitmanesque yodelling) we were at once taken by the rich timbre of Malo's voice. A tango followed then The Everly's Let It Be, Eddy Arnold's Make The World Go Away and La Vie En Rose with the sweeping strings in Mantovani mode.
Besame Mucho had the ladies sighing as Raul crooned "Kiss me again, Besame Mucho..."
More country followed until, eventually, we were on our feet applauding and Dancing The Night Away.
Special mention here of the unnamed accordionist who helped add a touch of authenticity to the proceedings.
So it wasn't jazz - it was still an enjoyable evening. Must broaden my horizons more often!
Lance.
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