Jason Mcniff - Nobodys Son
by Geraint Jones
published: 27 / 10 / 2003
Label:
Snowstorm
Format: CD
intro
"Evocative and engaging " slab of Americana from the mysterious Jason McNiff, which "carries hints of Dylan, Donovan and Nick Drake"
Something of an itinerant minstrel, Jason McNiff grew up in England of Polish – Irish descent. Beyond that his bio tells us very little as he’s a secretive fellow apparently, who’s suspicious of the machinations of the music industry and would prefer to let his music do the talking. That’s a laudable sentiment that’s to be encouraged I’d argue, and perhaps a sensible one too, in light of the riches on offer here. Sometimes the increasing urge for artists to reveal their inner selves in the media can demystify what should always be able to speak for itself – the music. Jason McNiff has a distinctive voice, albeit one that carries hints of Dylan, Donovan and Nick Drake. His music is similarly permeated by their influence amongst others, although neither is overwhelmed by them. As befits his background, Celtic and Eastern European influences simmer beneath the surface of some of his songs as does a rich appreciation of English and American folk music together with shades of contemporary Americana, the latter accentuated perhaps by occasional guest appearances by Grand Drive - the harmonies of brothers Julian And Danny Wilson as affecting as ever. ‘Nobody’s Son’ is an evocative and engaging collection and I’ve a strong feeling we’ll be hearing a lot more of his music in future, if not from the elusive Mr. McNiff himself.
Track Listing:-
1 Blow Up The Bridge2 Outta Here
3 I Remember You
4 Adieu To Lausanne
5 Don't Dance With Me
6 All Around America
7 Time Goes Rollin' By
8 Nobody's Son
9 Half Drunk
10 Oh Caroline
11 Weeping Willows Weep
Band Links:-
https://www.jasonmcniff.com/https://www.facebook.com/raindriesyoureyes/
https://twitter.com/jasonmcniff
bandcamp
soundcloud
reviews |
Joy and Independence (2018) |
Stripped-down sixth album from London-based but Bradford-raised troubadour Jason McNiff which shows him at his very best |
Rain Dries Your Eyes (2017) |
Another Man (2006) |
most viewed articles
current edition
In Dreams Begin Responsibilities - #15- On Being Dignified and Old aka Ten Tips From Jah Wobble On How To Be Happy.Dennis Tufano - Copernicus Center, Chicago, 19/7/2024
Elliott Murphy - Interview
Wreckless Eric - Interview
In Dreams Begin Responsibilities - #16: Living in the Minds of Strangers
In Dreams Begin Responsibilities - #17: Tom Robinson
Adrian Gurvitz - Interview
Norman Rodger - Interview
Chris Spedding - Interview
Penumbra - Interview
most viewed reviews
current edition
Groovy Uncle - Making ExcusesPhilip Parfitt - The Dark Light
Jules Winchester - The Journey
Hawkestrel - Chaos Rocks
Bill Wyman - Drive My Car
Ross Couper Band - The Homeroad
Deep Purple - =1
Popstar - Obscene
John Murry and Michael Timmins - A Little Bit of Grace and Decay
Splashgirl and Robert Aiki Aubrey Lowe - More Human
Pennyblackmusic Regular Contributors
Adrian Janes
Amanda J. Window
Andrew Twambley
Anthony Dhanendran
Benjamin Howarth
Cila Warncke
Daniel Cressey
Darren Aston
Dastardly
Dave Goodwin
Denzil Watson
Dominic B. Simpson
Eoghan Lyng
Fiona Hutchings
Harry Sherriff
Helen Tipping
Jamie Rowland
John Clarkson
Julie Cruickshank
Kimberly Bright
Lisa Torem
Maarten Schiethart