Jason Mcniff - Nobodys Son

  by Geraint Jones

published: 27 / 10 / 2003

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Review

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 Bridge
2 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/raindriesyour
https://twitter.com/jasonmcniff