Andra Sparks - Pizza Express Music Room, Maidstone - 26/01/01

Last night we went to hear a singer new to us: Andra Sparks. She had a career in teaching and 'serious' music before recently expanding into jazz, most notably with a well-received disc: 'People We Once Knew' (Verge 002 ). We knew nothing of her, but were initially attracted by the quality of her backing group (also on the disc): Nick Weldon (piano), Jeff Clyne (bass), Trevor Tomkins (drums), and reedsman Iain Dixon (so good on Dave Green's recent CD). Well, she was marvellous. Her delivery was excellent, and her diction, intonation, and artifice – if the dramatic content may be so-called – were all first-rate. She certainly held the stage with ease and charm. The material she chose to sing was also top drawer, despite some of it not being familiar. There were several fine arrangements, and original songs, by Nick Weldon, as well as a sprinkling of standards. I know we were not alone in our admiration of this lady. All in all, it was a most enjoyable occasion, and we would certainly like to see her prosper. We look forward to seeing her again soon.

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