Ann Hampton Callaway
Fans of FOX’s American Idol are constantly praising that show’s contestants for their ability to master different musical styles. But those people seeking a true lesson in musical versatilty should head to Dizzy’s Coca-Cola at Jazz at Lincoln Center this week to hear Tony Award nominee
Ann Hampton Callaway.
In this sublime collection of songs — many performed in deliciously non-traditional arrangements — Callaway displays a wealth of colors, along with an extraordinary vocal range. (She’s aided in her task by a superb trio of musicians, who provide perfect support.)
Much of the 80-minute set derives from the Great American Songbook, including a gorgeously plaintive rendition of George and Ira Gershwin’s lesser-known gem, “Isn’t It A Pity,” and a truly heartbreaking take on Rodgers & Hart’s “It Never Entered My Mind” that could make you cry in your beer (or whatever drink you’ve happened to order).
Not surprisingly, Callaway shines brightly on the up-tempo tunes, including a truly swinging “How High the Moon,” complete with a tribute verse to the late, great Ella Fitzgerald; a country-rock-meets-rhumba flavored rendition of “All the Way”; a suitably sensuous take on Antonio Carlos Jobim’s “The Wave”; and especially, a joyous, no-holds-barred version of Fats Waller’s “AIn’t Misbehavin’,” in which she gets playful backing from bassist Peter Washington.
While audiences will be content with all of these numbers — along with one of Callaway’s made-up-on-the-spot tunes using audience suggestions — Callaway delivers a powerhouse version of “At Last” as her encore, sending listeners into the night on a wave of delight.