Friday 7 December 2012

CD Review: ROBIN ROBERTSON & THE JAZZ TIGERS - YOU NEVER KNOW

ROBIN ROBERTSON & THE JAZZ TIGERS - You Never Know

Self Released
Robin Robertson (g); Colin Train (kybds, voc); Colin Cunningham (b); Jim Drummond, Al Pugh (d)
Recorded: n.d
The Jazz Tigers are broadly speaking a jazz fusion outfit, who to these ears, tilt slightly more to the rock side than the jazz. As one would expect from such an aggregation the arrangements and rhythm section are tight, yet retain a lightness of delivery that prevents the music getting bogged down, and give proceedings a relaxed and enjoyable lilt.
All the tracks, with the exception of Sam Cooke’s ‘Let The Good Times Roll’, are originals penned by the band’s nominal leader, Robin Robertson. A quick resume for the guitarist show that he appears to be equally at home in rock, jazz, blues and indeed classical music, and this quiet confidence and sure-footedness is apparent in this current offering.
All the material is muscular yet lean without being overpowering, with Robertson’s themes getting the point across succinctly. ‘Bros’ has particularly taut groove that gives way to a straight 4/4 swing section that gives ample opportunity for Roberson to display his jazz chops to good advantage.
The aforementioned ‘Let The Good Times Roll’ has a vocal from Colin Train that adds variety and breaks up the set nicely, whilst the ballad is neatly handled by Robertson’s solo guitar feature ‘My View’, which is far too short at a mere 2 minutes 28 seconds, and has an endearing quality that would be nice to hear as full arrangement for the whole band.     
An enjoyable set, that presents a band with some interesting things to say in their chosen genre, and  who play for the music without sacrificing content and quality over displays of instrumental virtuosity.
For more information, and to buy the album check out www.robin-robertson.co.uk.

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