
CHARMAINE FORD: A Busy Silence
By Karen Hunter
'A Busy Silence' indeed - this kick ass jazz album was recorded in two days in Wellington and mastered the following week. If you don't know Charmaine Ford yet and you think you might like to find out about the local jazz scene then here's your cue. She's 26, writes all the tunes, leads the band and plays with the confident chops of someone far more experienced. Tom Callwood (bass) and Reuben Bradley (drums) provide solid support and set off a few sparks from time to time particularly on the dark bluesy Pins and Needles and the climactic jam Farewell Blues. Johnny Lippiett (tenor sax) creates smooth textures on Joshua Sleeps adding some tonal colour to complement the trio tracks. Ford's writing is diverse and encompasses funky latin Maybe This Time, stylish moody ballads Lyall Bay and tightly crafted swing tunes like the opener On My Way. This album will grow on you with time and is well worth it.
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