Clare Teal - Pizza Express Music Room, Maidstone - 24/02/02

It is always good to hear a fine 'new' talent like Clare Teal, and gratifying to have an initial impression amply confirmed. I first heard her singing on a radio programme and wanted to see her 'live' as soon as possible. So it was with more than the usual anticipation that we hied ourselves to Maidstone for this gig. From her first blues-ey entrance to the rendition of her final 'standard', we all knew we had been in the company of a wonderful talent. She is a vocalist with an easy stage presence and good range, with immaculate phrasing that shows she is a perceptive student and exponent of all that is best in top-class popular singing. Above all, she is blessed with a beautiful and distinctive sound. In short, she instantly acquired an enthusiastic following who eagerly look forward to her return. It is a further pleasure to be able to state that her regular accompanists – Nils Solberg (gtr), Trevor Whiting (rds), Rod Brown (dr), John Day (bs), and Martin Litton, relaxed and authoritative on piano – provided just the practised and nicely judged backing a singer requires – all, I am pleased to add, well represented on her CD 'That's The Way It Is' (Candid). The title song, and one or two others, notably 'Messin' With Fire' also reveal a not inconsiderable talent for memorable song-writing. I know I am not alone in believing this artist will go far.

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