In Joan Morris and William Bolcom’s concert at Strathmore, the husband and wife team presented an overview of American 20^th Century songwriting in breathtakingly straightforward interpretations.

The amazing thing about Joan Morris is the clarity and deceptive simplicity she brings to her work.  All her years of experience have allowed her to know what is good, effective material for her; know what story she wants to tell with it; trust the material; and perform the song.  It is an approach that serves her well whether she’s performing a charming number such as “Under the Bamboo Tree,” a torch song such as “Here’s That Rainy Day,” or a rouser like “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?”

Bolcom’s accompaniment is nonpareil both in his sensitivity to the material and his sensitivity to his wife.  Pleasantly, all the song intros were included, and it was particularly nice to hear the rarely-performed second verse of “I Love a Piano.”

The team shared memories of such personalities as Eubie Blake and John Wallowich.  And after sharing the back-story of “Lime Jello Marshmallow Cottage Cheese Surprise,” their performance of the song demonstrated why it is their special contribution to the cabaret repertoire.

Michael Miyazaki
Cabaret Scenes
February 26, 2009
www.cabaretscenes.org