The music on this themed album was originally commissioned by Lancaster Jazz Festival Evolve Commissions 2022 and inspired by stories of the light, strength and resilience of northern women past and present.
As with HS2, north doesn't really mean north but rather Lancashire which, I gather is north-west. Nevertheless, geographical nit-picking aside, this is still an interesting album and not quite as pretentious as you might expect it to be.
Johnson gets a strong, powerful sound when strong, powerful sounds are called for which is quite often. However, she can also be sensitive when sensistivity is of the essence such as on Now I Can Tell or the final track, Embers.
Jones' beautiful intro to the title track is mesmerising, setting the scene for the others to pick it up. Johnson moves into top gear paving the way for Vickers to run with the ball. Jones has another interlude before Johnson hits out as forcefully as any of the women whose lives she is celebrating. Milne and Hanley keep the flame burning throughout helping to make this ambitious project very accessible. Lance
Available on November 3. PRE-ORDER SAMPLE HERE.
Force of Light; Home; Sister; Now I Can Tell; Northern Flame Intro; Northern Flame; Embers
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