There I Am CD reviews:
A
heart full of song... Someone once said that Jim Reynolds had the song-writing
talent of 'a real human being'. In a world where so much music is the result
of technology and market packaging, that was a real compliment. It is only
one of hundreds of compliments that are regularly paid to this west country
based musician, who has built up a loyal following for his superb guitar
picking, warm melodies and gentle voice.
His latest CD, There I am, which was launched last month, offers a rich and varied selection from Jim's vast repertoire. From the opening bars of the delightfully tongue in cheek Time of my Life to the haunting warning of Another Night, you know you are in the hands of a seasoned pro. All songs, apart from the beautifully interpreted I can Dream Can't I by Irving Kahal and Sammy Fain, are composed by Jim.
Undoubtedly one of the finest singer-songwriters on the contemporary acoustic
scene, Jim has been likened to Burl Ives, Eric Clapton, John Martyn and
a host of other greats - however, none of them ever sounded like Jim Reynolds.
On There I am he is joined by John Parricelli on lead guitar, Jody Veal
on harmonica, Matthew Cresswell on cello and his Smile Partner Dave Griffiths
on mandolin.
Fergus Byrne - Marshwood Vale Mag
Yet
another CD has arrived from that prolific songwriter and regular visitor
to St. Ives, Jim Reynolds. The album entitled "There I Am" contains
twelve tracks, 10 of which were written entirely by Jim. On the 11th his
wife Jilly has contributed the lyrics to Married Man's Shoes and on another
I Can Dream Can't I the words and music of this delightful song were by
Irving Kahal and Sammy Fain. Jim Reynolds has a flair for creating new songs
that immediately feel relaxed and familiar. His soft caressing voice, almost
yodelling at times, appears to wrap his fine melodies in a cushion of honey,
whilst his dazzling guitar playing not only beautifully lays down the basic
tune but when required, provides a full orchestral setting around it, as
illustrated so well on his instrumental Nowhere Fast.
Colin T. Johnston - St. Ives Festival Organiser
Jim is about to release a new album entitled 'There I am'. Although it is a studio product the album is a good reflection of Jim's live repertoire where he uses his smooth voice on gentle ballads and thoughtful self-penned songs. His stunning finger-picked ragtime guitar playing is also showcased on a couple of instrumental tracks which give the whole album a well-rounded feel - just like Jim Reynolds on stage.
Bristol & Bath - Venue Magazine
Jim is a festival favourite and has been with us from year one. I am sure that his joyful music will make you smile!
Di Lyon (Dartmouth Festival)
Jim
has written one of my favourite songs – "Slow
Day". He is a beautiful picker and a fine interpretor of other peoples’ material.
It's always a pleasure to be in the audience when Jim is playing.
Keith Warmington (BBC Radio Bristol)
The following are quotes from club organisers:
Jim Reynolds attracted an even larger audience on his return visit, than on his debut for us ‚ after a melodious two hour concert many, including other musicians, gathered round wanting to hear more.
Colin T. Johnston (St. Ives Festival & The Lifeboat Inn, St. Ives, Cornwall)
Jim
Reynolds is unique. Possessed of the rare ability to capture the listener's
attention with the honesty and integrity of his lovely songs. His guitar
accompaniments are both fluid and diverse, tipping his hat to the blues,
a little jazz here and there, driving rhythms and soft measured finger style
too. Interspersed with his own songs you will hear covers of Nick Drake,
Paul Brady, John Martyn and one or two great early 20th century standards,
all done with an original approach, which revitalises the compositions. You
haven't lived until you've heard Jim sing 'Every Time We Say Goodbye'.
Mike Silver
His
evocative voice, accomplished guitar-playing and lovely original material
guarantee him a very special place on the folk circuit.
Sue Pugh (Bournemouth)
Back
again by popular request. Skilfully adept with the contemporary song and
a great guitar player ...wonderful!
Pam Colls (Dartford)
A
highly skilled performer with a warm, engaging personality... an all-round,
outstanding performance with style, class and humour, to a packed room.
Book him for a great night!
David Francis (Nailsea)
If
you are looking for an evening out with a true professional who has a polished
and well-crafted approach then look no further.
Jeff Blakelobb (Milton Combe)
A
class performer. His songs, by turn, wistful, romantic and funny, are accompanied
by stunning and beautiful guitar-playing.
Jerry Page (Arundel)
Jim
is a first rate guitarist, fine singer and excellent song writer with an
immense repertoire of his own songs, classic oldies, ballads and blues, marked
with his own particular style and thoughtful arrangements. A very popular
performer with a warm, friendly manner and infectious sense of humour who
is a real entertainer – you can't fail but to have a great time and
his dance routines just have to be seen to be believed!!!. A smashing blues-tinged
voice, very classy finger-picked guitar playing. Whilst the material has
a distinctly blues or ragtime feel, it also exudes a wonderful laid-back
feeling – a great entertainer.
Sally Day (I.E. Theatre, Axminster, Devon)