Oleta Adams is a true hybrid—part soul, smooth jazz, gospel and R&B. Supported by her husband/drummer John Cuchon, guitarist Jimmy Dykes and bassist Al Turner, her shows display the aspects of each style all coalescing around her rich, perfect pitch alto. The show, delivered with her earnest conviction and uplifting messages centered around her big hits and selections from her latest CD Let's Stay Here. Opening with "Circle of One," a driving R&B number, the show took full stride on the third song, her first ballad, "My Heart Won't Lie," when the sound mixer finally got it right.

"Feelin' Good," the Anthony Newley/Leslie Bricusse classic, gets a jazz treatment and sounded great. Adams is a capable songwriter, accommodating her strong vocals, and she doesn't shy away from writing about tough subjects. "No Way to Love Me" challenges domestic abuse and "Another Day" was written about the Virginia Tech massacre. Adams was brought up on gospel and maintains a strong faith, exhibited in life affirming numbers like "Picture You The Way That I Do" and a "Let's Stay Here," a lovesong to her husband.

Two huge numbers were "Power of Sacrifice" and the encore, "Act of Forgiveness," both Adams' compositions. The arrangements sizzle, putting the band and Oleta's voice through their paces. You know what you're gonna get with Oleta Adams and she doesn't disappoint. She's a gifted musician blessed with a beautiful voice and a very loyal fanbase—what more could you want?

Steve Murray
Cabaret Scenes
April 30, 2009
www.cabaretscenes.org