
(Review by Russell/Photos
courtesy of Mike Tilley).
Leeds College of Music has cultivated many fine
musicians. Many of them find their way to Newcastle to play a gig. At the Jazz
Café a new voice captivated the audience. Vanessa Rani possesses a fabulous
voice, she’s a natural talent. Working with Ms Rani in the band Manjula are
three top notch musicians; percussionist (and reassuring presence) Sam Bell,
bassist Simon Read (himself leading a band at a young age) and guitarist Joe
Harris.

Angelique Kidjo’s Malaika featured guitarist Joe Harris. Considered, fearlessly few notes, searching, getting there. Rani sat throughout two sets – as did Bell and Harris – with a set list atop of congas. With some trepidation the vocalist joined Bell as a percussion duo on Paper Pictures, another original number, about the shortcomings of Facebook. Rani did a more than decent job and later revealed that Sam Bell has encouraged her to learn to play the instrument. Another brace of originals, then Afro Blue. A highlight of the gig, without a doubt. Soaring vocals…no, make that effortless, soaring vocals, Rani – the vocalist and percussionist! – excelled, yet generously afforded solo space to Harris and Read ahead of a stupendous percussive coda. Huge applause, subsequently Sam Bell told us that earlier in the day Vanessa almost talked herself out of taking on the percussive part. Thankfully, she went for it. To finish, Rani sang Angola. Passionate, talented, Vanessa Rani is a star in the making!
Russell.
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