A syllogism: If Johnny Mercer is the American Songbook's best friend, and Marlene VerPlanck is Johnny Mercer's best friend, does that make Marlene VerPlanck the American Songbook's best friend?

If her latest concert at The Manor in East Orange, New Jersey is any indication, the answer is a resounding yes. In a celebration of Mercer's finest songs (many of them featured on her album Marlene VerPlanck Loves Johnny Mercer), VerPlanck offered her unique spin on some classic numbers, proving that there is always an exciting, fascinating new side to every song.

With her pure, clear voice and thoughtful, careful phrasing, Marlene VerPlanck is the perfect interpreter of Mercer's songbook. His songs are musical gems—perfect little emotional moments that beautifully express the giddy joy of first love ("Jeepers Creepers," "Namely You"), the dream of love ("I Thought About You," "I Remember You"), the frustrations of love ("Something's Gotta Give," "I Wanna be Around") and just plain fun ("That Old Black Magic"). The songs are called "standards" for a reason: These classic numbers are the groundwork not only for contemporary jazz, but for the modern American Songbook. And just when you think you've heard every twist and gimmick a singer can do to a song, the VerPlancks come along and strip away everything unnecessary, leaving the pure music and emotion to remind us of why the number was—and is—so beloved.

Billy VerPlanck's arrangements focus on the emotions of each song, bringing out layers that offer new interpretations and meanings, which Marlene conveys with the skill of a Shakespearean actress. Whatever the feeling of the song is, she makes it intense and personal, seemingly connecting with each audience member on an individual level. That connection is what makes Marlene such a remarkable performer, and what has earned her such a dedicated following.

Johnny Mercer's songs are timeless, and in the VerPlancks' hands, every number sounds new, fresh and vibrant again. It is no accident that Marlene has been chosen to sing at Mercer's centennial celebration in Savannah next year. Start planning the roadtrips now.

Jena Tesse Fox
Cabaret Scenes
October 16, 2008
www.cabaretscenes.org