aaamusic | On 24, Mar 2014

Monday 17th March, London

Irish singer Christine Tobin has been an inspiring jazz improviser since the 1980s. She’s also a fine interpreter of the music of the legendary Canadian poet, singer and songwriter Leonard Cohen.

This evening was the CD launch of Christine’s 10th album, A Thousand Kisses Deep, which contains new arrangements of Leonard Cohen songs to celebrated his 80th birthday. She was supported by Phil Robson (guitar), Huw Warren (accordion/piano), Dave Whitford (double bass), Adriano Adewale (percussion) and Nick Smart (trumpet).

In beautiful mellow tones Christine sang the classic songs ‘Suzanne’, ‘Tower Of Song’ and ‘Famous Blue Raincoat.’ The sad romance ‘Hey, That’s No Way To Say Goodbye’ was warm and inventive whilst ‘Take This Waltz’ had a relaxed Viennese feel. ‘Dance Me To The End Of Love’ was reminiscent of a Miles Davis arrangement and ‘Story Of Isaac’ recalled this dark, biblical horror story.

Christine sang two original numbers of her own. The fast moving and classy ‘No Love, No Thrill’ , about a woman ending a relationship with an older man, and the catchy ‘Bye Bye.’ Her emotional and affectionate encore ‘God Bless The Child’ was a great tribute to writer Billie Holiday who won a Grammy Hall of Fame Award for this song.

Christine is a gifted, imaginative song writer who sings Leonard Cohen’s lyrics with a graceful, sensual and distinctive voice. Leonard Cohen was diverse in exploring politics, religion, isolation, relationships and sexuality. Here were were reminded of his mystery, intelligence and unorthodox life, but also bought closer to his elusive and enigmatic personality.

Anthony Weightman