Last minute gift idea

So we had some FlyBuys expiring next year, and decided to cash in our rather pathetic total. It came down to only two choices - some plastic utensils or a penguin shower radio. Hubby picked up the radio last week.



This little chap is quite something. His goggles are the on/off switch, his flipper control the AM/FM and tuning, and his foot is the volume. He sits on our shower wall and belts out our favourite tunes, increasing the enjoyment of an otherwise tedious activity a hundred fold. We felt a little silly ordering him, but we're so glad we did. If you know someone who would appreciate some music to help their shower-singing along, this would be a great present.

Noel Leeming has it here.

Or you can buy less exciting shower radios...

Jacques Loussier Trio at the Auckland Town Hall

We jumped at the opportunity to hear this jazz legend live, as it was his ‘farewell tour’. For those who don’t know, Loussier takes classical music from the likes of Bach, Vivaldi and Ravel, and gives them a jazz arrangement.

The concert was divine. There were amazing solos from his double bass player and drummer. You never knew what might pop up next – from a few lines of La Cucaracha on the piano during ‘Spring’, to a run from Rhapsody in Blue on the bass during the Bach encore. Loussier had such a light touch, but there was enormous power from the band at times as they deftly took on pieces written for huge orchestras.

Loussier is also quite a character. It was amazing how much personality he was able to portray, just by introducing the pieces. The whole thing was magic – you must see them if you get the chance.

Three quick CD Reviews

It was my birthday recently, and as a result my music collection has grown a little.

"Home" by The Corrs

I was initially a little disappointed as I started to listen to this album. On the first few songs Andrea's voice just wasn't that charming - I think perhaps they are set too low for her. However, from about track 5 onwards everything is as you'd expect. Lovely songs, great arrangements and that knack that the Corrs have for making the traditional relevant. Perservere with this one and you'll be rewarded.





"Unexpected Songs" by Julian Lloyd Webber

This CD is just divine. Lloyd Webber has picked a large variety of songs to play with simple accompaniment. Each is different, but all are sublime. It is gentle, soothing, yet inspiring music. Uplifting and calming at the same time. If you have even an inkling towards liking classical music, you should buy this album.





"The Essential Doris Day"

I wouldn't have thought it possible, but I think I am beginning to like Doris Day almost as much as Ella Fitzgerald. They're quite different in style, but probably equal in charm. Doris is just so easy to listen to, so upbeat and cheery - she just makes you smile.

This collection is a good mix of pop and jazz, swing and blues... and is impossible not to like. I can also recommend her "16 Most Requested".



(Never say I don't have eclectic tastes)

CD Review: Buddy de Franco and Oscar Peterson Play George Gershwin

I bought this CD from a street vendor on La Rambla in Barcelona. It was packaged with two others and I had no way of knowing if it was any good - except for some key factors: it was published by Verve Records; Oscar Peterson is a legend and I'm sure he would only play with the best; and Gershwin's music is gorgeous and has infinite scope for interpretation.

When I finally got home to my CD player, I knew I had been on to a good thing the moment the music reached my ears. The men are supported by a vibrant orchestra, and each piece is rich and satisfying. Whether intense and mournful (I Wants to Stay Here), light and joyous (I Was Doing All Right) or bright and furious (Strike Up The Band) - this CD is a joy to experience and if you come across it you really should buy it. Oscar's fingers run across the keys so fast I have trouble imagining it, and Buddy's clarinet just seems to sing. Perfect for a lazy afternoon.

Musical sandwich hits the market

Tired of the same old lunch at your office desk? Help is at hand. A supermarket is launching the ultimate life-enhancing snack -- the musical sandwich.

In a trial certain to be welcomed by the estimated one million Britons who eat their lunch at their desks each day, Tesco will use technology similar to that used in singing greetings cards to sell musical sandwiches.

Opening the top of the sandwich box will activate a tiny sound module that plays a selection of music. This season's offering will be a medley of Christmas tunes including Jingle Bells, Santa Claus is Coming to Town and We Wish You a Merry Christmas.

Tesco Spokesman Jonathan Church said the potential of the melodic munch was enormous.

"It's designed to provide busy office workers with relaxing music to make eating lunch at their desks more enjoyable than ever before," he said, adding that the concept could be easily adapted for Easter, Valentine's Day or Mother's Day.

While it's not certain how your true love would react to being given a tuneful tuna lunch on February 14, Church said the idea could also be used in conjunction with record companies to launch songs by new artists clamouring for the kudos.

The first offering will have no such ambitions, and will consist of a turkey and cranberry sauce sandwich with pork and cranberry stuffing. The new musical sandwiches will go on sale this week.

But further out, flavour/song combinations under consideration include Prawn To Be Wild, Let It Brie and that old Julio Iglesias favourite, Fillings, Tesco said.

- REUTERS

NZSO at the Town Hall, Auckland

I was lucky enough to win free tickets to this concert on Saturday (thanks TVNZ!) It was fantastic. I was a little bit wary about the first piece, as it was obviously modern. I’m not a fan of much written after the 19th century. The contemporary item is usually at the beginning of programmes, and most often I sit through it, waiting for the items to follow before I begin enjoying myself. This piece however, John Adams’ “Short Ride in a Fast Machine”, was amazing. From the first beats of percussion to the frenzied finale, this was action-packed and scintillating. As we broke into applause I had an involuntary smile on my face.

Our conductor, Hannu Lintu, took enthusiasm to a whole new level.

Next, our violin soloist Cho-Liang Lin appeared, and Brahms’ sublime Violin Concerto was executed with grace and precision. The concerto progressed through many moods and showed the dynamic skill of Mr Lin, and the orchestra. The theatre of the concert then took place, with Mr Lin making about 5 trips on and off the stage before finally raising his bow (which had lost a good deal of its hair during his performance) for an encore. It was “Gavotte”, a dance by Bach, and very pleasant indeed.

After the intermission, we were treated to Tchaikovsky’s 5th Symphony, which was also superb. With Mr Lintu literally jumping up and down towards the end, the orchestra responded magnificently. At its conclusion applause burst out, and Mr Lintu exited the stage promptly - presumably to get some oxygen. He appeared again several times, but alas the orchestra was not roused for an encore. Still, a fantastic night had by all, judging from the comments from fellow patrons.

For an official review from the Herald, click here. Also an article on Lin here.

It's official - Musicians are wired differently

Don’t be offended if musicians ignore what you’re saying while music is playing - the language part of their brains could be already fully engaged, research from the University of Auckland shows.

PhD student Lucy Patston from the faculty of science has discovered that musicians hear music as a language.

"Past research has shown that musicians process music on the left side of their brain as opposed to non-musicians who process music on the right side," said Ms Patston, who is doing her research through the faculty’s department of psychology.

"The left hemisphere is predominantly used to process language, so my research has been trying to find out if musicians actually process music as language."

Ms Patston tested 36 expert musicians and 36 non-musicians, using a battery of cognitive tests.

Each participant had to do two visual and two language tasks under three different testing conditions to see if their performance was enhanced or impeded.

"They had to do the tests with no music, while listening to music played with the right notes and while listening to music played with the wrong notes."

When the musicians did the language tests in silence, they scored better than the non-musicians. However, under the two music conditions their performance significantly dropped.

The performance of non-musicians was not significantly different in any of the conditions, suggesting they were not affected by the presence of music.

"The evidence from these initial tests suggests that musicians hear music as language because they have difficulty processing both language and music at the same time. The brain is competing for the same resources," Ms Patston said.

An unexpected finding of the research was that musicians scored higher in the test in silent conditions.

This might have repercussions for the way children are taught, she suggested.

Ms Patston recently received top prize in the faculty of science’s Postgraduate Society Poster Competition for her current research work.

The competition provided an opportunity for students to display their research in a manner that non-scientists could easily understand.

She said the competition was a good way of developing skills to explain the technical aspect of her study to non-specialist audiences.

In the next phase of her research Ms Patston hopes to put candidates through the university’s functional magnetic resonance imaging machine, which will show the specific parts of the brain working.

Using similar testing methods the machine will be able to further explore her findings.

- NZPA

Music and language

* Most people use the left side of their brain for analytical tasks such as language.
* The right side is used for more creative experiences, such as appreciating music.
* Musicians process music with the left side of their brains, suggesting they hear the notes as language.

CD Review: Hayley Westenra's "Odyssey"

I popped my (autographed) copy of Hayley's new CD into the player with high expectations. This amazingly talented young woman is a wonderful example of a Kiwi living the dream. Now based in London, Hayley says she has had more control over her new album, and was picky about which songs would make the cut.

The album begins on a quiet note with "Prayer", which is almost like a lullaby. Hayley's voice is supported by a harp, occasional strings and a choir in a sweet melody. The first single comes next: "Never Saw Blue". It's a deceptively simple love song that gets under your skin after you've heard it a few times.

The duet with Andrea Bocelli, "Dell'Amore Non Si Sa", seems a little monotonous and hurried in the verse (Hayley), but blossoms into a glorious chorus (Andrea). The best party (both together in harmony) is saved until last, although to me it sounds like Hayley could have been mixed a little louder. I hope these two have another chance to record together, perhaps with some more dynamic material.

Next Hayley has chosen to sing Caccini's "Ave Maria", impeccably. I've heard this piece performed by many others, and I can't say this version left much of a new impression on me, but it was done faultlessly as you'd expect.

Joni Mitchell's "Both Sides Now" has been co-arranged by Hayley next. The song doesn't really show off Hayley's voice much, but it is pleasant enough. The following song has been both co-arranged and co-written by Hayley: "What You Never Know (Won't Hurt You)". It is a better example of the unique qualities of Hayley's voice, without being showy.

"May it Be" immediately being forth the beautiful imagery of our country on display in "The Lord of the Rings" to my mind. This is the best version of the song I have heard so far - it seems that there is something stirring in the melody that suits Hayley's voice perfectly.

"Quanta Qualia" is a kind of pulsing ensemble choral song which crescendos its way forward, interweaved with oboe solos. In about the middle of the song, Hayley's voice begins to soar above it all. Upon first hearing it took me a while to recognise it was her voice - it is so high and pure that I at first thought it was a flute. "Bachianas Brasileiras No.5 Aria (Cantilena)" is another song in which Hayley's voice is used purely as an instrument (sans lyrics). She leads a melody above plucking strings and a solo cello.

I love "She Moves Through the Fair" - it moves the Irishness in my veins. I already knew the song since I'd heard it sung by foodie/writer/traveller Peta Methias. The arrangement is haunting and mystical. The next song "I Say Grace" is a gospel tune which must be geared towards the America audience she is next to conquer. It doesn't really strike a chord with me, and does tend to go on for a while - but I am sure others will find it more appealing than I do.

The album finishes with "My Heart Belongs to You", which is a contemporary ballad. It's an attractive song sung with great feeling.

Overall, this album doesn't have as many catchy tunes as her first one - hopefully this won't be to her detriment. In many of the songs however, she is quite experimental with her voice, and I think this is refreshing in today's manufactured and bland music world. All the best Hayley!

Official site

CD Review: It's Time by Michael Buble

I had looked forward to Mr Buble's second album with much anticipation, after having enjoying his first immensely. His debut was a mix of tight swing and beautiful ballads. The second is somewhat different. While the songs have all been treated with a jazz feel, there is experimentation with lots of different styles. And while I think I will like it just as much, you just need to be in a different mood.

First I'd just like to say that it seems obvious that Michael found love between the making of his first and second albums. Apart from the sweet note to his lady on the sleeve notes, there is an undeniable sincerity throughout the album as he sings about love and devotion. How nice to know he has someone in mind while he sings those lovely lyrics.

The first song, "Feeling Good" is probably associated to most with diva Nina Simone. I think Michael does a good job. It sets an interesting tone for the album. Overall his vocals are much freer and experimental on this album. The orchestrations are, to my mind, impeccable. He has a great band.

There are some songs which I don't feel he has added much to (while being pleasant enough), as they have been done so much in the past by great artists. These are: "A Foggy Day", "I've Got You Under My Skin" and "Mack the Knife".

The songs which I enjoy the most are the sweet ballads, especially "You Don't Know Me", "Try a Little Tenderness" and "You and I". He just has such a sensitive voice, which communicates love and longing perfectly. You can tell he wrote the ballad "Home" as the words just sound as if they are poured from his heart. It may be a simple song but it communicates the sentiment well.

Track 4, "Quando, Quando, Quando" is a duet with Nelly Furtado. I was a little worried when I heared about the pairing, as I can't say I care for Ms Furtado's other music. I was, however, pleasantly surprised. Her voice, kinda soft and lazy but with points of staccato, seems to suit the rhythm and arrangement of the song. They do sound quite nice together.

"Can't Buy Me Love" is of course a cover of the Beatles original. I do like the tempo, but I think the arrangement is a bit much. Michael is drowned out at times and it loses its crispness. An interesting treatment though.

"The More I see You" starts off in grand style - this is the Michael Buble we know and love. It then strips back before building up again. Mike even has a go at scatting towards the end and is pretty good. Thumbs up.

"Save the Last Dance For Me" seems like it's trying to be the "Sway" of this album, but I'm not sure it makes the cut. I would listen to this version rather than the original, but it's not one of my favourite songs on this album.

"How Sweet It Is" is classic rock and roll (with jazz accents) and makes a nice change. A punchy arrangement with Michael's voice weaving over it like silk, getting more gritty as the song progresses. I like it.

"Song For You" takes the album in a Blues direction. Michael sings it with great passion and the muted trumpet is a treat. It will be interesting to see what else he does in this style in the future. "My Funny Valentine" was given a similar treatment on his DVD.

"Dream a Little Dream" could have fit into the "doesn't add much" category, but his whistling is so classic it deserves its own praise. Nicely done.

Overall, would I recommend buying the album? Yes. It delivers many different things, and takes you through a variety of moods. Don't go looking for a clone of the first album, but for an exploration into an evolving talent.

CD Review: Ella and Louis, Ella and Louis Again (both Verve)

Rarely do you have so much genius in one studio at one time. Ella Fitzgerald, The First Lady of Song, Louis Armstrong, Legend of Improv with voice and trumpet, Oscar Peterson, one of the greatest pianists of all time (and his band) and Norman Granz, the record producer from 'Nam. It's a mix that brings together musical heaven. The team worked their magic on songs by Berlin, Gershwin, Kern and several other greats. And then they got together a year later to do it again.

If I ever need to get in a better mood, or enjoy my current one, all I need is one of these CDs. The best of them, for me, is the camaraderie between Ella and Louis, and their inherent feeling for where each is taking the song. The upbeat numbers are bright with swing and scat, and the slower tunes are a mix of Ella's smooth tones and Louis' growls. The trumpet sings resonantly throughout.

A few highlights from each disc. Number one: the front cover of the first CD, particularly Louis with that big grin and those bright white socks. Classic. The first track "Can't We Be Friends" is a wonderful upbeat battle of the sexes kind of number, which you can't help but sing along to. "Isn't it a Lovely Day" will give you a new appreciation for rain. "The Nearness of You" is just a beautiful song. The beauty of having both vocalists sing the song through, and also a trumpet solo, means that the songs are a generous length.

"Don't Be That Way" starts off the second album in grand style. You wonder why you ever let these songs leave your CD player. A particular highlight is "Stompin' At The Savoy". Norman Granz explains that the version on the CD was actually the rehearsal, with both vocalists freely going off on their own tangents. It was "so spontaneously exciting that we decided to keep it". The next track "I Won't Dance" is peppered with hilarious Louis phrases like, "I'm not asbestos, honey!". My final highlight would have to be "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off". This song has been done so many times, but this version has to be the ultimate. Ella: "You got pyjamas!"

What else can I say... buy them! You won't be disappointed. NB: There are other albums of these two together - such as "Ella and Louis Sing Gershwin" and a "Best Of" from the two I own. I also have the "Porgy and Bess" album. You can't go wrong no matter what you pick.

CD Review: The Very Best of Gershwin (Decca)

I bought this CD when I was 18, and it was my first jazz album. And what a great introduction! The album consists of two CDs: the first features the great jazz vocalists (as well as Oscar Peterson) with their renditions of great Gershwin songs. the second CD has various American orchestras playing the most popular suites and overtures, and of course includes "Rhapsody in Blue".

My favourite track has to be #2, in which Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong sing "Summertime". It is musical perfection. From the swelling sounds of the orchestra, to the contrast of smooth Ella and sandpaper Louis - definitely one of my favourite songs ever. This, together with the two other Ella tracks on this album ("Oh, Lady Be Good" and "Embraceable You") were the starting point for my Ella obsession :-)

Other highlights for me are tracks by Sarah Vaughan, Shirley Horn, Billie Holiday, Anita O'Day and Dinah Washington.

If you're looking for a good sampling of Gershwin, or just jazz generally, I highly recommend this album.

CD Review: The Essential Ella (Verve)

This was my very first Ella album. It's a great introduction to her wonderful style, consisting mainly of standards. They have been picked by the good people at Verve from Ella's "Great American Songbook" albums, and were originally produced by the legendary Norman Granz.

I can't pick a favourite song - they're all so good - but highlights are probably "With a Song in my Heart", "I Got Rhythm" and "Misty". The album includes the song that brought Ella into the limelight ("A-Tisket, A-Tasket") and the time she forgot the words to "Mack the Knife". There are songs to suit just about every mood. We even chose to do our wedding dance to "From This Moment On".

I can't recommend this album enough for someone who is wanting to get a good sampling of Ella Fitzgerald.

What I'm listening to: Coast

This radio station is at 105.4FM. It's great for people like me who are fans of jazz and pop classics. It's kind of a mix between Solid Gold (93.4FM), which plays 60's pop and the old Cool Blue (99.0FM) which was a mix of jazz/blues.

Coast is generally good value. A good mix of jazz (upbeat stuff plus ballads), early pop and musicals. The good thing is that it never has more than 60 seconds of ads at a time. I have however noticed that the breaks are getting more frequent as of late. Another niggle is the very frequent news, sports, and weather (all punctuated with ads). If I want news, I will listen to Newstalk ZB, or any other station. I listen to Coast for the music. The presenters are occasionally annoying too - that's why Cool Blue was so good - no presenters or news! The only other fault is the same thing you get with all radio stations - they do their promo, playing lots of little snippets of songs. You find yourself singing along to the snippets (especially if you've just tuned in at that point in time), and then they switch to another good song. But do you ever hear these high quality songs in the actual play list? Unfortunately not. I'd like to see a greater range of songs from the great artists - you can practically predict what Frank Sinatra song they'll play from a list of 3 - and some Ella Fitzgerald, please!!