Asked to define jazz, Gregory Generet answered, “It’s about taking something that is and giving it a new life.” This might well have been the description of his engaging show: fresh arrangements of popular songs by Henry Mancini, Cole Porter, Burton Lane and Yip Harburg, in addition to those of Van Morrison and Stevie Wonder.

Dressed in an elegant tan suit, white linen shirt and sporting a snappy orange handkerchief, Generet appeared relaxed, confident and ready to swing. He opened with “Stolen Moments,” a blues standard by Oliver Nelson, one of two numbers lifted from his recently released debut CD.  The other, “Moondance,” a Morrison classic, has been covered many times, but never like this.  Eddie Allen’s stunning trumpet solo contained echoes of Basin Street, setting up a dream-like mood for Generet’s luxurious rendering, a virtual conversation with his audience.

Generet has a rich, warm voice which has traces of Johnny Hartman, Joe Williams, Billy Eckstine and David Allyn.  Hartman’s influence was especially felt in “Slow Hot Wind” (Mancini & Gimbel), a sultry and sexy song that just sizzled with longing.  One of the more interesting tunes was “Estate,” an Italian song written by Bruno Martino with the beautiful lyrics of Jon Hendricks – “Without you it’s like winter in my heart.” The Latin sensibility was a perfect platform for Generet’s sensual interpretation.

The program was filled with imaginative arrangements by Musical Director Christian Sands who played some outstanding solos.  “Love for Sale” showcased every band member, including bassist Matthew Rybick and drummer Dwayne “Cook” Broadnax.  Generet had plenty of fun with Porter’s formerly controversial lyrics.  Wonder’s “I Can’t Help It” had a driving rhythm which provided an ideal hook for Generet to dance to and from the stage with the grace of Fred Astaire.

Gregory Generet believes in telling the story of every song he performs. This is obviously a mantra for all singers, to go beyond the words and convey the feelings of a song’s central character, and he has placed his beliefs into practice.  It was a pleasure to hear a superb performer breathe new life into old tunes that still have the power to surprise us.

Jerry Osterberg
Cabaret Scenes
August 10, 2011
www.cabaretscenes.org