It makes a change to be in the attic instead of the basement. Attic is a bit of an understatement when you consider that said attic is the elegant and supremely tasteful top deck of the converted church atop the Oran Mor. Nonetheless, this was an entirely suitable venue for the exquisite vocal charms of Christine Bovill.
The purpose of this event was, of course, to promote the launch of her album “Derby Street” and the faithful were here in force to support that very aim. With the cognoscenti of the west end in attendance – as they should be – there was also a good cause seeking attention and the work of Spirit Aid was duly highlighted by David Hayman (director of one of Glasgow’s very few cult classic films “The Near Room”).
So, onwards and upwards to Ms Bovill as she performed both the songs in her album and a selection of standards that were welcomed like old friends by the audience. Ms Bovill has the kind of voice that exudes class and she soon shone the light of interpretative intelligence on a couple of Edith Piaf songs and, even on her own songs like “Shadows”, you were soon transported to a Parisian cafe. Admittedly, she was more latté than espresso but there was always the imminent danger that she would suddenly stub a cigarette out on you and, after all, civilisation always has its compromises. It was abundantly clear, however, that there more to her than keeping the unadventurous content as she was more than happy to invade Maeve O’Boyle territory when the mood hit her.
It was hardly surprising therefore that she got a standing ovation as she didn’t really put a foot wrong and I shall now have to give serious consideration to falling madly in love with her. It’s an occupational hazard.