Scott Barbarino has been described as a singer, a quick-witted comedian and a producer. He is all of these, but fundamentally, he is an entertainer.

His group, the Bev-Naps, provided enveloping harmonies for a number of memorable songs, including "Sea Cruise," "Under the Boardwalk," and "You Belong to Me." He was joined by an earlier member of the group, Ruth-Ann Bender, and guest vocalist Molly Mahoney for "Everybody Loves Somebody." With a voice that's smooth, easy and comfortable, Barbarino soloed on "Ain't That a Kick in the Head" and "I Like It Like That."

With his Bev-Naps chiming in, Barbarino's instinct for sprinkling a good feeling is wonderful to see and hear. At the Metropolitan Room, he engaged the audience, seemingly effortlessly, into an interactive mode, which both pleased and gratified them.

The Barry Levitt Quartet is a lively group of eminently capable musicians, led by pianist Levitt. His tempo is steady, his improvisation is imaginative, and the foursome provided excellent support. Joining Levitt in the group were Erik Udell on bass, Anthony Pinciotti on drums and David Schnitter on tenor sax.

Seymour Spilka
Cabaret Scenes
August 28, 2008
www.cabaretscenes.org