If Only
A great album. The tunes are at once new and familiar. By the second listen, I was singing along. The standout track is the wry "Perhaps Yes No Well Maybe", but "Stay Out Of My Dreams" runs it a very close second.
I do think that my favourite will change dependent upon mood, they are all good.
Gina Griffin's fiddle is a beautiful accompaniment, never too in the foreground, she also adds her artistic talent to the sleeve design.
An album that I will be playing for a long time to come.
Gareth Cornfield - Radio Tircoed 106.5fm
Guitarist and singer Jim is renowned amongst cognoscenti for being a
very fine musician, which explains why he’s been in demand for the
past twenty or so years for sessions and touring. He’s worked with
many of our most respected acoustic music icons, from Phil Beer, Steve
Tilston, Mike Silver, Wizz Jones, Chris Newman and Isaac Guillory to
Maggie Boyle and the late George Melly.
But in spite of his intense versatility, he’s never seemed to receive
the approbation or wider “namecheck” status of those folks. This is
even more unfathomable when you get to know his songwriting, which,
though equally versatile stylistically, always manages to be
accessibly intimate, his wry yet deeply felt observations on life and
love almost always leaving the listener with a feeling of hope. In the
latter respect he’s clearly learnt much from his own admitted idols,
in my opinion particularly Ralph McTell and John Martyn; I also sense
the influence of Gerry Rafferty in there somewhere. Whatever Jim’s
inspirations, though, his songwriting is classily wrought and his
humanity never in question, although it can take a while – and some
close listening – for the special qualities of Jim’s art to reveal
themselves. His talent can at times seem altogether too subtly
deployed – but then again, why should he need to shout? He will always
have something to say, but he’s not a protest singer; even so, he’s
been through the mill countless times, and his sanguinity and optimism
have enabled him to survive.
On If Only, which I think is Jim’s sixth proper solo record (there’ve
also been two as part of the trio Smile with Stuart Gordon and Dave
Griffiths), the relaxed well-craftedness of his songwriting is brought
into focus anew. Its tender, loving vibe is attributable to Jim’s
latest creative resurgence, itself largely down to a joyful and
inspirational rekindling of a friendship with violinist Gina Griffin,
whose magical, uplifting playing graces a majority of the album’s
tracks. When she’s duetting with Jim’s guitar, closely mirroring the
flowing melodies, it’s impossible for any sensitive listener to fail
to respond to the heartfelt empathy of the playing, on the
instrumentals Sorry and On The Way Home in particular (the latter
employing a mildly extended structure and breezy interludes).
Jim gets plenty of opportunity to display his facility to move between
accepted styles, from songs of wistful pleading (Keep Your Distance)
and gentle regret (Elfreda) to the laconic bluesy ragtime of Perhaps,
Yes, No, Well, Maybe (this number harking back to his fun days with
Pigsty Hill), via flights of fancy that (like life itself) turn from
slightly silly to deeply pensive within the space of a couple of
verses (the title track). The tender reassurance of Whatever You Want
has something of the air of John Martyn’s May You Never, while the
lovely melody of Stay Out Of My Dreams almost belies its lyric’s
melancholy message. Jim’s deft, lovingly crafted acoustic guitar
accompaniments are miracles of understatement, but sure make their
impact, while he also reaps the benefit not only of Gina’s
musicianship but that of three other guests on a small handful of
tracks: Kit Morgan (electric or Spanish guitar), Sally Barnett (cello)
and Matt Taylor (bass or tuba).
Yes, by around fourth or fifth playthrough this CD really gets under
the skin, and it’s hard to resist hitting the replay button after
almost any of its 11 tracks. Jim’s achievement here is considerable,
and it would be a shame if the fruits of his labours were to fall at
the first hurdle when listeners don’t – or won’t – make the time to
give his music more than a cursory skim or glance, a fate which by its
often unassuming character it is rather in danger of suffering. I
might say “if only…”
David Kidman - NetRythms May 2012
His website calls him a "legendary songwriter, guitarist and singer of blues, ragtime and old fashioned ballads" and anyone who's seen him local in folk clubs over the years will certainly agree that description, but there's also a deeply
serious, reflective, side to Jim Reynolds.
Looking through his biography, it's obvious that his life has been full of ups and
downs, with the accent, perhaps, on the downs and that's illustrated graphically in
his new CD. That's not to say, however, that this album is depressing. Far from it.
It's full of hope and well-crafted tuneful songs, performed with great ease and
talent. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.
Jim Marshall - The Folk Diary
There I Am
A
heart full of song... Someone once said that Jim Reynolds had the song-writing
talent of 'a real human being'.
In a world where so much music is the result
of technology and market packaging, that was a real compliment. It is only
one of hundreds of compliments that are regularly paid to this west country
based musician, who has built up a loyal following for his superb guitar
picking, warm melodies and gentle voice.
His latest CD, There I am, which was launched last month, offers a rich and varied selection from Jim's vast repertoire. From the opening bars of the delightfully tongue in cheek Time of my Life to the haunting warning of Another Night, you know you are in the hands of a seasoned pro. All songs, apart from the beautifully interpreted I can Dream Can't I by Irving Kahal and Sammy Fain, are composed by Jim.
Undoubtedly one of the finest singer-songwriters on the contemporary acoustic
scene, Jim has been likened to Burl Ives, Eric Clapton, John Martyn and
a host of other greats - however, none of them ever sounded like Jim Reynolds.
On There I am he is joined by John Parricelli on lead guitar, Jody Veal
on harmonica, Matthew Cresswell on cello and his Smile Partner Dave Griffiths
on mandolin.
Fergus Byrne - Marshwood Vale Mag
Yet
another CD has arrived from that prolific songwriter and regular visitor
to St. Ives, Jim Reynolds. The album entitled "There I Am" contains
twelve tracks, 10 of which were written entirely by Jim. On the 11th his
wife Jilly has contributed the lyrics to Married Man's Shoes and on another
I Can Dream Can't I the words and music of this delightful song were by
Irving Kahal and Sammy Fain. Jim Reynolds has a flair for creating new songs
that immediately feel relaxed and familiar. His soft caressing voice, almost
yodelling at times, appears to wrap his fine melodies in a cushion of honey,
whilst his dazzling guitar playing not only beautifully lays down the basic
tune but when required, provides a full orchestral setting around it, as
illustrated so well on his instrumental Nowhere Fast.
Colin T. Johnston - St. Ives Festival Organiser
Jim is about to release a new album entitled 'There I am'. Although it is a studio product the album is a good reflection of Jim's live repertoire where he uses his smooth voice on gentle ballads and thoughtful self-penned songs. His stunning finger-picked ragtime guitar playing is also showcased on a couple of instrumental tracks which give the whole album a well-rounded feel - just like Jim Reynolds on stage.
Bristol & Bath - Venue Magazine
Jim is a festival favourite and has been with us from year one. I am sure that his joyful music will make you smile!
Di Lyon (Dartmouth Festival)
Jim
has written one of my favourite songs – "Slow
Day". He is a beautiful picker and a fine interpretor of other peoples’ material.
It's always a pleasure to be in the audience when Jim is playing.
Keith Warmington (BBC Radio Bristol)
The following are quotes from club organisers:
Jim Reynolds attracted an even larger audience on his return visit, than on his debut for us ‚ after a melodious two hour concert many, including other musicians, gathered round wanting to hear more.
Colin T. Johnston (St. Ives Festival & The Lifeboat Inn, St. Ives, Cornwall)
Jim
Reynolds is unique. Possessed of the rare ability to capture the listener's
attention with the honesty and integrity of his lovely songs. His guitar
accompaniments are both fluid and diverse, tipping his hat to the blues,
a little jazz here and there, driving rhythms and soft measured finger style
too. Interspersed with his own songs you will hear covers of Nick Drake,
Paul Brady, John Martyn and one or two great early 20th century standards,
all done with an original approach, which revitalises the compositions. You
haven't lived until you've heard Jim sing 'Every Time We Say Goodbye'.
Mike Silver
His
evocative voice, accomplished guitar-playing and lovely original material
guarantee him a very special place on the folk circuit.
Sue Pugh (Bournemouth)
Back
again by popular request. Skilfully adept with the contemporary song and
a great guitar player ...wonderful!
Pam Colls (Dartford)
A
highly skilled performer with a warm, engaging personality... an all-round,
outstanding performance with style, class and humour, to a packed room.
Book him for a great night!
David Francis (Nailsea)
If
you are looking for an evening out with a true professional who has a polished
and well-crafted approach then look no further.
Jeff Blakelobb (Milton Combe)
A
class performer. His songs, by turn, wistful, romantic and funny, are accompanied
by stunning and beautiful guitar-playing.
Jerry Page (Arundel)
Jim
is a first rate guitarist, fine singer and excellent song writer with an
immense repertoire of his own songs, classic oldies, ballads and blues, marked
with his own particular style and thoughtful arrangements. A very popular
performer with a warm, friendly manner and infectious sense of humour who
is a real entertainer – you can't fail but to have a great time and
his dance routines just have to be seen to be believed!!!. A smashing blues-tinged
voice, very classy finger-picked guitar playing. Whilst the material has
a distinctly blues or ragtime feel, it also exudes a wonderful laid-back
feeling – a great entertainer.
Sally Day (I.E. Theatre, Axminster, Devon)