Close Encounter (3)

José den Burger - Lead vocals John Shepherd - Vocals and guitar Onno de Jong - Vocals and bass Music is your life. You love it, so much is clear. Then you are sure to love the trio "Close Encounter". They will comply with every wish. Again and again you will hear new and subtle timbres, even in their breathing: Synchronous openings, sonorous or with declining power. A continued basstone in the same position on the same string changes from one harmony to another. Countless little inventions that make it worth your while to listen over and over again. All this is achieved without electronic force, without any inartistic effects. On the contrary, Fred Snel and the trio arranged and executed the entire repertory most delicately with love of music and of singing. Close Encounter was supported by renowned musicians such as: Ruud Brink - saxophone, Chris Dekker - Drums, Henk Meutgeer - Piano and Fender. John Shepherd, the swinging guitar player, with his striking flexibility, never too loud, Always keeping in mind not to be too obtrusive. Onno de Jong, the bass-player, on his big bass, beautifully in harmony, Always singing legato as well as pizzicato. José den Burger is the "leading lady" of Close Encounter. When she sings she transfers a part of her energy to the audience. She is so dynamic, singing her "heart out" that the way she fits in with the trio is almost a miracle of discipline. This might seem self-evident, yet all artists like to be the king, the greatest or the best. She, however, realises that you form a part of a team even as soloist. First of all comes the harmony, beautifying and renewing the lyrics and the music. A refreshing benefit for anyone that loves beautiful music. (By Ted de Braak)