Kristopher McDowell is the first to say that his largely one-man show, The Newley Project, is a work in progress. One can sense how the show is evolving and what it is likely to become. Its richest moments come toward the end with “What Kind of Fool Am I?” McDowell finds all the complex layers of regret and painful self-analysis chocked into its lyric. It would be good to see more of that in “I Do Not Love You.” He conveys the tender aspects of that song well but may want to further plumb the edgier, bitter emotions that lyric of mendacity conveys early on. Although he makes the wise choice not to impersonate Newley, there are some fascinating aspects of Newley as performer and personality that will undoubtedly be incorporated further as this project unfurls. Unlike the handsome, genteel McDowell , Newley was neither. Beyond a remarkable vocal range, it was grittiness and self-exposure that made Newley unforgettable. McDowell’s singing is smooth and controlled. Newley’s seldom was. The Newley Project, having much promise, might consider more walks on Newley’s wild side.

Accompanist Joshua Stephen Kartes is a fine pianist. However, playing for singers carries unique requirements. Kartes would do well to slow down certain tempi, especially in his own solo (representing Leslie Bricusse, Newley’s songwriting partner) of “On a Wonderful Day Like Today.” We miss some lyrics due to the rushing. McDowell is a strong vocalist but would nevertheless be better supported at times by a less arpeggiated accompaniment.

McDowell sings beautifully and offers some juicy Newley anecdotes. As The Newley Project matures, he will no doubt let his hair down more. He needn’t morph into the giant blueberry from Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, but respectfully, would an Oompa-Loompa moment be too much to ask?

Carla Gordon
Cabaret Scenes
March 8, 2009
www.cabaretscenes.org