Lovingly tributizing her uncle, Christine Reisner sings the songs of Albert Hague on this compelling disc of sophisticated songs, with a flair. Kicking it all off with a bouncy “Look Who’s in Love,” with lyrics penned by that sharp wordsmith Dorothy Fields, a tone of happy nostalgia is set that only gets better with each cut.

Albert Hague’s history started in Berlin as a piano prodigy and led to successful forays into character acting and, later, as a beloved cabaret performer as well as a composer on Broadway and as a respected vocal coach. Yet, he will most be remembered as Professor Shorofsky in the television series Fame. With this album, the listener can’t help loving that man of so many talents who left a void when he passed away in November 2001.

Christine Reisner has a lovely, light soprano that fits these diverse songs like a glove. This is especially so on some very bouncy numbers, like a campy, fun romp on the rousing “The Bear on the Bull (with the Parasol)” (lyrics: Hague), which is a serious novelty highlight. “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” (lyrics: Theodore Geisel; How the Grinch Stole Christmas) sounds like it’s right out of a movie musical with Fred and Ginger. Too, the inventive arrangements are perfectly suited for Reisner's happy/sensitive delivery on “I’m Back in Circulation” sung with haughty gusto. She truly brings these songs to life.

While this basically is an album of fun, word-twisting songs, Mr. Hague’s vast talents shine as well on a glorious heartfelt ballad, “It Wonders Me” (lyrics: Arnold B. Howett), expressive with a music box accompaniment on the piano only that is one of those special surprises that will have the listener pressing the repeat button often. This is a song that can easily have a life in cabaret (once word gets out) and Ms. Reisner serves its gentleness with a classy and warm interpretation that lingers.

Uli Geissendoerfer is credited with all arrangements. And, what job! Eric Michael Gillett lends his falsetto to two cuts. The best one is easily “Young and Foolish” (lyrics: Arnold B. Horwitt) about a pair of lovers reflecting on their youth. The song is a beauty and enhanced by Rob Thomas’s violin. The rest of the ensemble is made up of top-notch musicians on this compelling album that is a must for anyone who likes cabaret songs by a gifted songwriter. Thanks to Christine Reisner, Albert Hague’s legacy is extended and will linger. Hopefully, it gets the attention it deserves.

John Hoglund
Cabaret Scenes
July 1, 2012
www.cabaretscenes.org