I’ve just had a great few days hanging out with Canadian singer-songwriter Ann Vriend and her bass player James Forrest. Took them to the valley on Wednesday night, first to the Press Club for Mike Frost and the Icemen, then to the Bowery where they played a few songs and James sat in with Mal Wood’s band. I’m pretty sure we solved the problems of the universe around dawn Thursday but when I woke up that afternoon the answer seemed to have floated away….
Last night Ann played the Brisbane Jazz Club – a nice crowd turned out to see her. She was in fine form, she writes beautiful songs and sings with passionate intensity. Tin Man was a standout. I sat in on four songs and had a ball.

Ann is constantly on the road, she’s in Hobart tonight and Melbourne next week. Check out her website www.annvriend.com – she lives in Edmonton Canada and tours here every year.

Ok Waterloo Hotel with Kay this Saturday night, then the Grandview on Sunday – should be a couple of good gigs.