Alan Broadbent: You And The Night And The Music

Each member of the band seems to approach the album’s selections like an old friend, so well-known that the conversation has become rote, worn to a smooth, pleasant rhythm, so utterly comfortable that, though lacking the fascination of new discovery, it somehow remains eminently satisfying. At least to the participants. To the observer, the endless and at times meandering anecdotes and chuckled references can become tedious. Perhaps this is why Broadbent’s album works better when overheard than addressed directly.

Hovering in the background, the music establishes a warm, welcoming tone similar to the murmured conversations overheard at a bar. And just like these conversations, the music can provide moments of startling interest when dipped into briefly. A particularly witty run, a subtle drum solo, an extended display on the bass. However, once engaged fully, one quickly realizes this is a party to which you haven’t been invited.

Listening to You And The Night And The Music transports one back to a time when bars had live bands. Groups tucked themselves into corners, honing their ability to set a tone, fill in gaps in conversation, and provide lone drinkers a moment’s respite. At least the album reminds one of movies that tell us those bars existed, and that’s what sustains its appeal.

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