You don’t have to ask me twice to see glorious-voiced Maureen McGovern’s shows. OK, this time they did, rescheduling required due to a battle with bronchitis (hers, not mine) canceling shows). Who’d’ve guessed?!  – she sounded not hoarse, but healthy as a horse. I’m not sure why that animal’s the epitome of salubriousness, but McGovern’s a musical thoroughbred to bet on, whatever she’s singing. Currently, she’s following in the path of her dazzling A Long and Winding Road 2008 CD/show, staying mostly on that circuitous folk-pop road, paved circa mid-1960s-70s. Some same songwriters are sampled: Joni Mitchell (the melodically elastic “Help Me” smoothly navigated); Paul McCartney (“When I’m 64,” as a goof — she admits to being 62); Jimmy Webb (“Up, Up and Away,” not quite soaring for me); several by Paul Simon (the show’s highlight, a stunning, involved “An American Tune”—and what the show’s title references, ironically or purposely “dangled” as snippets twice). Also revisited/(sub)title-referenced: Laura Nyro (jaunty “Time and Love” and reliving “And When I Die” from that 2008 work). Recent songs came via Jonatha Brooke and Miss McG’s excellent accompanists: clever quirkiness from bassist Jay Leonhart and a well-acted heartbreaker from pianist Jeff Harris. Dangling conversation pieces included: chatty recollections of the peace/love era versus today’s not-so-brave new world; technology; reflections on women’s changing roles.  Peppy, light fare didn’t fare as well for me, but affectionate nostalgia captivated others. Serious ballads with exquisite, pure tones and focused acting mesmerized.  McGovern makes magic and memory-stirring merriment.  Popcorn and caviar.

Rob Lester
Cabaret Scenes
November 10, 2011
www.cabaretscenes.org