Our Sinatra, with Hilary Kole, Eric Comstock and Christopher Gines, which premiered in 1999, “has been resuscitated more often than Spider-Man,” says Comstock. Appetite for tribute to the master never dies; the material is timeless. Covering an immense amount of territory, the game trio of vocalists, accompanied by Comstock at the piano and talented bassist, Boots Maleson, sing solos, duets and ensemble numbers. Historical context, anecdotes, amusing comments and breezy cast interplay bridges the songs.

Highlights include Kole’s “It Never Entered My Mind” (Richard Rodgers/Lorenz Hart), an extremely original interpretation with phrasing that undulates, her jazzy “I’ve Got the World on a String” (Harold Arlen/Ted Koehler), during which she offers virtuoso scatting, and a seriously sultry “I’m a Fool to Want You” (Frank Sinatra/Joel Herron/Jack Wolf). The vocalist is extremely polished with a beautiful, bright voice and accomplished control. Comstock’s performs a simple, soulful “Everything Happens to Me” (Matt Dennis/Tom Adair) including a verse written for Sinatra late in his career, which alludes to finding answers at the bottom of a glass, and a version of “Pennies from Heaven” (Johnny Burke/Arthur Johnston) beginning elegantly with only syncopated bass, then segueing into swing as Comstock takes the piano. The performer’s stage presence is comfortable, his patter, easy and genial. And there's Gines’s meaningful version of “For Once in My Life” (Ron Miller/Orlando Murden) and lilting “Last Night When We Were Young” (Arlen/ Harburg). Hi duets with Kole or Comstock showcase his infectious enthusiasm. The original concept for the show came from Gines.

Our Sinatra continues at Feinstein's thrtough 1/21.

Alix Cohen
Cabaret Scenes
January 28, 2012
www.cabaretscenes.org