If you’re up for a swinging holiday season, Lea DeLaria’s your girl – musically, speaking that is. She celebrated the release of her new CD, Be a Santa, chock full of the “swingingest” of festive tunes, but she also treated us to songs from her other albums.

I could have sworn Ms. DeLaria was on speed during her terrific version of “Sleigh Ride” covering styles from samba to circus. I loved her Austin Powers-esque “All That Jazz” with its wonderful syncopation and rhythm changes.  Her original song, “A Modern Christmas Tale,” was another highlight, atmospheric for its nice, slow swing.  However, my personal favorite was “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” where her scat shone like the Star of Bethlehem.

She was in a great mood and great voice. In her inimitable style, Ms. DeLaria cracked jokes between songs, and toyed cheekily with her audience.  She was beautifully supported by a trio of equally swinging musicians – Janette Mason (piano/arrangements), Simon Little (bass) and Mark Fletcher (drums).

On a very cold night, this was the perfect way to warm up to the holiday season!

Harold Sanditen
Cabaret Scenes
December 6, 2010
www.cabaretscenes.org