George Benson, Weekend In London. Album Review.

Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating 9/10

Intimacy in 2020 has become a largely forgettable experience. Unless you have been fortunate to escape the storm that has knocked the world of its side and the arrogant hubris pulled from within, like the string that controls the string that drives the recorded voice on a child’s toy, the intimate has become one of gestures, of silent nods and reciprocated waving of hands, a relegated sense of emptiness has befallen us all and there is little sign of anything physical that may change that.

However, a Weekend In London with the legendary George Benson could be the answer to some prayers of relieving the rising tension. From the great city of Pittsburgh to Frith Street, London, and all roads between and all adventures captured in song and spirit, such is the intimate pleasure of one of the leading examples of the Jazz serenade, that a weekend in such esteemed company could be seen as exactly what the doctor ordered.

There are venues which offer a closeness which mirrors the performer’s own tender grace; however, they are not often intertwined with its history, the sense of personal connection is not given to the account of pleasurable belief. Not so with George Benson and the world-famous Ronnie Scott’s, and it is in this relationship of intimacy, and in front of a select 250 people, that closeness becomes confidential affection.

The set captured at Ronnie Scott’s includes tracks such as the phenomenal Give Me The Night, Turn Your Love Around, I Hear You Knocking, Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love For You, Don’t Let Me Be Lonely Tonight, the passion of The Ghetto, Never Give Up On A Good Thing, and the superb Cruise Control as its finale, that confidential affection spread through the power of recording for the fan’s desire is one of scorching drama and beauty combined.

There is arguably no finer invitation that you will receive this year than spending a Weekend in London with George Benson, and one that doesn’t mean having to navigate the crowds and gatherings which we all miss.

George Benson releases a Weekend In London on the 13th November via Provogue/Mascot Label Group.

Ian D. Hall