» Review: Ayanna Witter-Johnson
Multi-talented artist Ayanna Witter-Johnson (composer, vocalist, cellist, pianist) played a short, intriguing and generous set which allowed her fellow musicians – Robert Mitchell on piano and Fraser Fyfield on pipes whistles, soprano saxophone and bagpipes (yes, really) – to demonstrate their formidable musical chops.
The songs were heavily jazz influenced, with the new Serious signing coaxing some gloriously cheeky and languid lines from her cello (named Ruben). This she mostly played as a double bass, occasionally slapping the instrument to generate a little extra percussive power, and generally treating it in a way that was likely to have more orthodox cello players weeping. Those used to witnessing the stately, dignified personality of the cello getting to grips with Bach, for example, might have felt the need to rush to the instrument’s aid.
Witter-Johnson’s voice was given ample space to soar and swoop within the context of the sparse arrangements, and greatly benefited from the ‘elbow room’ she was allowed. Her creamy, sexy tone perfectly complimented, and unified, the wondering keyboards and hyper-active woodwind. Lyrically, a hint of triteness and banality occasionally crept in, particularly in the song about her baby cousin, Aaron. I found myself completing each line ahead of her, so obvious was the direction of the lyrics and their rather gooey sentiment.
Elsewhere, the songs had much more bite and edge. ‘Free Trade’ – about the punishing conditions suffered by those working in sweatshops, stitching designer clothes for rich, pampered customers – certainly packed a punch, as did ‘Ain’t I A Woman’. At such moments the depth of passion in Witter-Johnson’s delivery really galvanised the small but appreciative audience.
It was a shame that an artist of her ability couldn’t command a larger gathering, particularly when many bands, who singularly fail to scale the heights of mediocrity, can pack local venues. Perhaps jazz isn’t regarded as sexy, or is seen as too challenging. No matter, Witter-Johnson seemed genuinely delighted we had all come along, and she spoke – her words punctuated with giggles – about her travels to New York and Cuba, and the genesis of some of her songs. A warm, wonderfully intimate and near perfect gig. The ideal antidote to a hectic day.
Latest Music Bar, 4 August
4/5
Gary Mepsted
