Davina Sowers is back in Edinburgh. Her fourth year in a row and playing on all ten days of the festival. Either she's very cheap to book, or this band can sell out venues night after night. Go to one of her gigs and you'll soon know which is right.
Jetlagged from a delayed flight, this was a performance run on adrenaline, and none the worse for it. Drums, double bass, trumpet, trombone and the lady herself on piano. The playing is solid, occasionally inspired, always enjoyable. Both brassmen and the drummer take a turn at lead vocals and all show themselves to be more than competent. But the essence of this performance is all in Ms Sowers' vocals, expansive personality and riotously entertaining facial expressions.
Brash, funny, confidential, outspoken, Davina erupts on to the audience and drags them with her. Her voice is extraordinary, full of power and raw emotion. Singing her own material, and classics from Louis Jordan to Chuck Berry, this is jazz with soul, and always intent on having a good time.
There will be better musicians in this festival. There might even be a few better voices. But not many acts will make you feel so good and send you out fizzing with joy. It's no surprise they keep being asked back.
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