Different Smile
Released May 2007, Fast Awake Records
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.
Tracks from Different Smile have been played extensively on radio stations throughout the country including BBC Kent, BBC Oxford, BBC Southern Counties, BBC Suffolk, Plug Radio Brighton and BBC Berkshire.
Buy Different Smile here:
“One of the most attractive features of her songwriting is its refusal to be corralled into well-worn, stereotypical forms”. Peter Quinn, Jazzwise
“Kaz is clearly able to call on a wide palette of musical colours and with her undoubted skill, a shining future for her is assured”. Keith Ames, Musician Magazine
“Simmons brings a graceful charm and insinuating ease that make the album simply melt in the ear”. Chris Parker, www.vortexjazz.co.uk
“It is unsurprising walks through Greenwich Park inspired some of the music here. Like its muse, the songs on Kaz’s second record, Different Smile, are bright, romantic and beautiful.” Greenwich and Lewisham News Shopper
“Different Smile” is a glorious buffet for the ear. Kaz Simmons hypnotic voice is deliciously infectious.” Bruce Pulver, www.jazzreview.com
“It’s a beautiful record, beautifully performed and recorded”. Mark Lockheart
| Tracks from Different Smile have been played extensively on radio stations across the country including BBC Kent, BBC Oxford, BBC Southern Counties Radio, BBC Suffolk, Plug Radio Brighton and BBC Berkshire. |
