Different Smile, released on Kaz’s own label Fast Awake Records was recorded by the celebrated Derek Nash (Jamie Cullum, Jools Holland) and mastered by Robert Harder (Polar Bear and Babyshambles) is a new departure of originals and arrangements with Spanish and Brazilian classical guitar styles as well as influences from the likes of Rufus and Martha Wainwright, The Divine Comedy, and her jazz background.
Kaz’s original compositions showcase her conversational, often humorous lyrics coupled with an unaffected delivery and accomplished guitar playing, complemented by the sensitive and uncluttered support of a fine young British band: Sam Crockatt – tenor sax, Ivo Neame – piano & Fender Rhodes, Simon Thorpe- bass and Dave Smith – drums. Ife Tolentino also makes a guest appearance on percussion.
Different Smile also features the Brazilian gems Estrada do Sol and O Circo Mistico; a musical setting to British poet Wendy Cope’s By The Round Pond; an unusual take on the classic How Can I Be Sure? as well as the rarely heard If You Knew by Nina Simone, which was originally inspired by a Jeff Buckley recording.
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