Ruth Lambert (vcl), Graeme Wilson (ten), Paul Edis (pno), Andy Champion (bs), Tim Johnstone (dms)."You and the Night and the Music" sang Ruth bravely battling a non-cooperative mic. before Adrian Tilbrook twiddled a knob or two to restore the equilibrium and enable Ruth to ride the number out in style as befitted her stable-girl chic.
Nancy Wilson's "Save Your Love for Me" was followed by the first of three devil numbers that were interspersed in the set lists.
This was "Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea" taken at a nice bouncy swing. The other devils were "That Old Devil Moon" and "Devil May Care".
All in all it was a typical Ruth gig which means quality songs sung impeccably in the company of four of the best guys around.
"My Romance" and "Time After Time" had Ruth starting off with just Andy Champion on bass. Both numbers were taken slightly faster than the norm which pumped a bit of life into them whilst "But Beautiful" was done slow and soulfully with Paul Edis emoting the perfect accompaniment behind the vocal. A similar feel was achieved on "Don't Explain", "So Many Stars" and "You Don't Know What Love Is".
The final "Almost Like Being in Love" began à capella before turning into a blast with some fine solos all round. Paul, Graeme and Andy had had their fair share but this was Tim Johnstone's only moment in the spotlight and he displayed the technique that makes me realise he is one of the most underrated percussionists around.
It was a good gig that was reasonably attended given the conditions underfoot and Ruth was in fine voice - catch her again soon.
Next week - Extreme Measures.
Lance.
Hi Lance
ReplyDeleteAnother good set from Ruth - in fine voice. I thought the gig had a low-key feel to it. Perhaps the snow kept some at home - those who were there seem to be the nucleus of regulars at Splinter @ The Bridge. Here's hoping it continues.
Russell