“Disarming” is defined by the wide-eyed wonder and joy that are the very presence and performance persona of the completely delightful Nellie McKay. It’s as if she’s been transported for an hour via a bubble that protects her from the ugliness and bitterness of the world. Oh, some delicious slyness has found its way in, but that adds to the mercurial mix. Her NYC show, sprinkling some quirky originals like “Bodega” among standards from her Doris Day tribute album, is an endearing, cheering smash. Even a curmudgeon could surrender. One reason is simply the purity and little-girl sweetness inherent in the singing voice itself, though she is somewhat of a vocal chameleon. And is it humanly possible to not smile when hearing a ukulele? She often accompanies herself thusly, when not at the piano. With just guitarist Jay Berliner, she scores with a plaintive “Mean to Me.” She also shows her goofy side, gamely doing a series of contrasting dance steps in her flowing aqua-colored gown, blonde curls bouncing, looking like a Disney princess with her first taste of champagne.

Don’t expect a swath of Doris Day biography or insight. Nellie doesn’t see that as her “Day job.” Such talk is terse, but effective and affectionate. The set list varies a bit from night to night. Five musicians join her, with Glenn Drewes on trumpet and percussionist Ben Bynum snazzily bringing feel-good old-timey flair to period pieces like the infectious “Undecided.” But there’s nothing undecided about this review: it’s an unqualified rave.

Nellie McKay’s show runs through June 12, with two shows on Friday and Saturday.

Rob Lester
Cabaret Scenes
June 3, 2010
www.cabaretscenes.org