The transition from Chambers St into the depths of The Jazz Bar feels almost like crossing between continents. This nook, reminiscent of a smoky New Orleans jazz hole, provides a suitable environment for an hour of twinkling blues.
Victoria Bennett provides silky tones, draped over the raw improvised brilliance rustled up by her three-piece band. A drummer, bassist, pianist (and special guest trumpeter) complement the swinging atmosphere of the room with perfect individual flares. Most of the pieces selected are closer to the blues singing of Holliday or Franklin as opposed to the quicker, staccato sound of Armstrong or Davis. The entire set is rounded off nicely by a lament that brought most of the couples in the room closer together.
Bennett's singing is advertised as inspired by Aretha Franklin. It lacked the same control, but the moments when her vibrato slipped between notes seemed inconsequential in comparison to the impressive range she had exhibited beforehand.
The songs breezed through the full house provoking cheers and rapturous applause after certain numbers. Toe-tapping, clapping and beaming smiles were common features from the audience throughout this hour of entertaining rhythm and blues. She performs again on the 13th, the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh.
