The Robert John Cook Blues Ensemble is properly named. Cook himself is the lead vocalist, but in true jazz ensemble fashion, he uses his energetic singing as a complement to his six grooving instrumentalists rather than to monopolize the spotlight himself.  If there's any doubt about his intent, he's listed in the performers' credits in fourth place, alphabetically, like everyone else.

The group's performance at Don't Tell Mama is exciting visually as well as melodically.  The musicians, Cook, and his two backup singers, accentuate the beat with their bodies as well as their instruments.  The group's arrangements of the song list that included numbers by Jimi Hendix, Bruce Springsteen and a couple by Cook himself, was infectious.  So much so that one audience member couldn't resist jumping up several times to bounce along with the pulsating rhythm that even infused band member Bob Dee's harmonica playing.

Admittedly, one has to enjoy jazz and blues to appreciate the Ensemble.  Unlike most performances heard in cabaret, their music is rhythm-driven rather than lyric-driven, and Cook's vocals are notable for their intensity more than for his interpretation.  That said, for an immersion into the genre, Cook's collection of jazz artists will capture your attention and hold it. Ian Herman is musical director and band leader, Shellen Lubin the vocal director and arranger.

Robert John Cook Blues Ensemble can be seen again at Don't Tell Mama on Thursday, October 9^th, Saturday, November 8^th, and Thursday, December 4^th and 11^th.

Peter Leavy
Cabaret Scenes
September 26, 2008
www.cabaretscenes.org