By The Adder, December 2000

Back in the days of the KlubKat printed magazine in East Anglia, one of my colleagues gave a glowing review of an 18 year old local singer/songwriter who used to pop up for regular sets at her local watering hole. The name "Aaron Short" has come up in conversation many times since, but somehow I never seemed to get around to having a listen for myself...

Then, about a month ago, a CD arrived in the KlubKat office. Nothing unusual in that, but when I opened the package what should I find but Aaron's latest offering in the shape of his new 4 track album "Isn't it funny." It seemed that fate had taken a hand and I was finally going to find the time to subject Mr Short to my own brand of critique!

First of all, this album is not at all what I had been expecting. Most of the modern bands out there go for heavy rock, punk, electronica, etc etc - Aaron Short's contribution to the world of music is more in keeping with the American Jazz singer, with some Blues Rock thrown into the mix. Aaron lists his influences as, amongst others, Elvis Costello and Elton John - and as he both composes and plays his own numbers on the piano, I'd say the connection is obvious. Aaron also sings covers, just to keep the punters happy, but the real talent of any musician (In my humble opinion) is in the ability to whip out a scrap of manuscript and roll off something of your own that holds up against the finest. If this new album is anything to go by, Aaron Short has already found his niche.

Vocally, there is absolutely nothing to give away the age of the singer. Aaron may be under 20, but his deep tones could easily be credited to a singer twice his age and with much more experience in the music business. He has been gigging professionally for the past four years, and it more than shows in his sound - even if you aren't a fan of the genre, you will be pleasantly surprised at the maturity and dedication shown on "Isn't it Funny". Now I can see why the name "Aaron Short" crops up so much.

All of Aarons devoted fans will probably want to mosey on over to http://www.aaronshort.com and pick up a copy of the new album at the entirely reasonable price of £4+ p+p.

A worthwhile addition to your new music collection - but do we have the next Elton John on our hands? Only time will tell.