Applesize Golden Clitoris
New album of the lesbian songwriter Jan Allain
A magic scene; A little rain has started to fall, but during her short
performance at this year’s Bielefeld CSD, Jan Allain finds exactly the
right tone and hits the right spot!. Nobody wanders from the stage; on
the contrary and the tomboyish singer attracts every attention. Every
single gig, no matter how small, leaves traces – especially with the lesbian
audiences.
This English singer, who does not hide her affection for women, thrives
and blossoms during her performance. She creates close contact to the
audience, sings with great charisma and has an amazingly likable and natural
charm about her. Reminiscent of early Joan Baez.
After her popular album “A kind of glory” and her highly praised collaboration
with Ilse de Ziah, she is long past being a hot tip even outside England
and Germany. She had her breakthrough in the lesbian scene during the
1989 LFT when she managed to sell 200 demo tapes in one swoop to the most
enthusiastic listeners of her appearance on stage. Jan is very happy about
her success: “It is a privilege to be so respected and acknowledged in
the German community. I travel a lot in Germany and I am always amazed
how warmheartedly I am received.” She started her career in 1982 at the
New York City Songwriter’s Night. Her talent and energy were recognized
and she won, even beating Suzanne Vega..
To date, there has been no big international breakthrough though. After
years of travelling and performing on many stages, her CDs are still self
distributed without a big record company backing. At least, she doesn't
have to conform to the commercial manners of the music industry this way.
During her gig at this year’s Rostock LFT she introduced her brand new
album “ Apple Size Golden Clitoris”. The title track, an extravagant piece
that she recorded with gay pop icon Tom Robinson, seems provocative on
a first listen.
“I didn't want to shock anybody. Once you have 'digested' the first track,
you'll discover a relaxed and happy album”, Jan Allain tells QUEER. Jan
Allain will perform her hymn about woman loving women and all other new
songs live together with Scottish fiddler Clare Lindley during the up
and coming weeks on tour in Germany. (Do Come!)
Dietrich Dettmann in QUEER 2001
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