Following an introduction by her father by way of video, Deana Martin bounded upon the stage and began to sing “How lucky can one girl be?—the first line of the iconic song from Ocean’s Eleven and the audience immediately erupted in recognition of two favorites, “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head” (Sammy Cahn and Jimmy Van Heusen) and the singer who introduced it – Dean Martin.

Backed by a spirited quintet led by Vinny Falcone on piano and wearing a stunning blue sequined gown which complemented her slender frame, Ms. Martin was clearly where she belonged.  She performed many of her dad’s most memorable songs while recounting funny anecdotes about his days as a star, including the obligatory reference to his drinking, such as his sauntering out on stage after being introduced, approaching the piano player and asking:  “How long have we been on?”

Most of the tunes we associate with her father or her “Uncle Frank” (Sinatra) were arranged by Falcone and another veteran from the Rat Pack, Joe Lano, who played guitar.  A fast-paced tempo accompanied many of the songs, including “You’re Nobody ’Til Somebody Loves You,” “The Lady Is a Tramp” and “Mack the Knife.”  Displaying a high energy presence, Ms. Martin had no difficulty keeping up with the band. There was a palpable camaraderie which included the audience, who clearly enjoyed being insiders.

Amidst extensive patter was a segment featuring a home movie of Dean and Deana and the recorded Dean singing a sweet duet with his daughter, who performed it live. At one point, two of her fans, possibly uncles, were invited on stage to join Martin in “Memories Are Made of This” and “That’s Amore,” a huge hit for songwriters Harry Warren and Jack Brooks.

Every member of the band was excellent: Bob Sachs on bass, Mike Mechem on drums and Dale Rampton on vibes.  The solos were superb, especially Joe Lano on “You’re Nobody…” and Vinny Falcone on “What a Diff’rence a Day Made.” Ms. Martin’s best numbers of the night were “L-O-V-E,” an easy-moving song recorded by Nat King Cole, and “Everybody Loves Somebody,” Dean Martin’s last #1 hit and his final signature song.

Deana Martin has been successful across the spectrum of the arts, including a best-selling memoir of her father, Memories Are Made of This, soon to be made into a movie.  Unemployed actors, take heart — the part of Dean Martin has yet to be cast.

Jerry Osterberg
Cabaret Scenes
March 14, 2011
www.cabaretscenes.org