ION INDIE MAGAZINE September 2017, Volume 40 | Page 50

I feel very lucky and honoured to have been on this journey with Kaz, from my first meeting her and her band at
“Blues on the Farm” in 2015. And then there was THAT photo that I capture of Kaz -- which has graced many
posters/flyers, etc. This kick-started the blossoming of what was to become a great friendship between us, which
has grown with each gig and time spent with Kaz and David (Sanderson), who is the “other half” of the Kaz
equation.
Kaz is celebrating the launch of her new album “Don’t You Know”, and not one known for being understated,
she presented it in grand style at none other than the stunningly beautiful St. Ann’s Cathedral in Belfast. Joining
her and providing accompaniment on piano and guitar was the great Sam York, who also appeared on her album.
Speaking of “Don’t You Know”, it chronicles the journey of Kaz’s life in both music and words. And if anyone
within earshot is not moved to tears after listening to the songs that Kaz offers up, they must also be checked
for a pulse, for this album delivers unto the listener ample doses of both joy and pain. The album will strike a
chord with all…songs like “Because You Love Me” are an example of such power; it plays on the heart strings.
And when it resounded in this regal cathedral…WOW!
It was very difficult to photograph Kaz with such emotions running through my body, but I hope I’ve done her
justice considering the stateliness of the venue and the importance of the occasion. With over 400 people packed
into the cathedral, it was a magnificent turnout, with people traveling from far and wide to share in this
meaningful evening. The media turned out in droves, jockeying to get their reviews and images. Kaz, an alumni
of the cover of ION Indie Magazine, graciously provided me carte blanche access…thank you, Kaz!
And so, the musical journey began with Sam York doing a solo set on guitar to set the tone for the evening. Sam
is such a talented guy, whose resume boasts the likes of Tom Jones, Ed Sheeran, Jessie J, and Jack Bruce, to name
a few. He performed flawlessly to a most appreciative audience. Then, at 8:30 p.m., the “Nendrum” backing
track filled the room. Kaz appeared from behind the altar seats, a vision of elegance in a full-length black dress
with a red sash fashioned around her waist…flawless!
Part one of the evening served up 8
songs, featuring 5 from the album.
Kaz, the consummate story-teller,
continuously provided the compelling
story and the meaning behind each of
her compositions. “Surviving” was an
especially impactful song, and it was
apparent that Kaz was struggling to
hold back the tears – the emotion
mirrored by the audience. However,
the intermission allowed all to
compose themselves for what was yet
to come.
6 songs comprised the second act,
with 3 from the album. Kaz’s daughter
Amy joined her on stage for the final
song, with David Jamison on cahon.
Mother and daughter teamed up for
“My Daughter My Reflection” – which
had Amy stifling tears as she
poignantly shared her love and
admiration
for
her
mother,
underscoring the strong bond the two
share.