CD Review: Norbert Kogging - Sketches of Ordinary Life

Norbert Kogging  (vcl); Folkert Oosterbeek (pno); Tobias Nijboer (bs); Felix (Schlarmann (dms); Michael Moore (alt/clt).

(Review by Lance).

Released in October, I've struggled to come to terms with this one. Perhaps, having been in a Sinatra frame of mind coupled with the more accessible Danish vocalist Mads Mathias' recent album Free Falling, this album by Dutchman Kogging looked to be a bridge too far, However, I persevered and, gradually, saw the light and I finally found myself actually enjoying it! Not just the vocal or even Michael Moore's pithy solos but, the power of the lyrics.

Having said all that, this is a one to listen to with no preconceived notions. Don't dismiss it after 1/2/3 listenings as I almost did. Dig deep, grab the meanings of the lyrics. Digest, meditate, there's so much profundity here - take my word for it, it simply grows on you. Kogging has the voice to convey the intensity of the lyric. A lyric delivered in a monotone yet never monotonous. Is it Jazz? Is Sinatra Jazz? If the answer is no to both questions, it doesn't matter. they are both as close to the core of jazz singing as some of the acclaimed jazz singers are themselves! Norbert and Frank enter the arena from different doors but there is a middle ground - music!
Available Kogging Records.
Check out on CD Baby.
Lance.