OBSERVER: Swing Affair
Mack the Knife was a ripping song (sorry!) to commence Morning Melodies at Hamer Hall.
Rhys Tolhurst sang the song languidly and sexily. He introduced the four-piece band: Musical Director Mike Pensini on keyboards, Gerry Pantazis on drums, Harry Morrison on double bass and Tim Wilson on saxophone and flute. What a quartet!
Each musician enjoyed solos throughout the concert, and all were impeccable.
Tolhurst’s I Get a Kick Out of You was enhanced by the smooth saxophone and was followed by a medley of That’s All, Where or When and Hold Me in Your Arms, before Nina Ferro joined him in Fly Me to the Moon. Ferro’s harmony beautifully complemented Tolhurst’s melody.
Ferro’s renditions of So Nice to Come Home To and Crazy Way of Loving showcased her mellow, mezzo, ‘jazz’ voice. She looked elegant in a burgundy velvet, off-the-shoulder gown and was charmingly relaxed in all her songs.
Ferro revealed that she had chosen Rhys Tolhurst to join her in performing Dirty Dancing in Concert, which they were soon to reprise. Ferro warmly praised Tolhurst’s talent – justifiably – he was excellent.
Tolhurst returned to sing the gorgeous Something Stupid with Ferro, and her harmony, reminiscent of Nancy Sinatra, was delightful. The easy banter between the pair showed an endearing mutual respect and affection.
Tolhurst’s voice was evocative of Michael Bublé, Frank Sinatra and Harry Connick Junior, but melded into his own unique style, and exemplified in a lovely rendition of That’s Amore. Saxophone and drum solos in Dance With Me and You Don’t Know were exceptional.
When Ferro returned, she sang Shiny Stockings, which she confided was performed by Ella Fitzgerald and the 16-piece Count Basie band. One can only imagine the big band sound! Ferro’s rendition with the smaller band, however, was superb.
The encore was Unforgettable, famously sung by Nat King Cole. This wonderful finale, which included stunning double bass and piano solos, concluded an ‘unforgettable’ afternoon.
Review by Juliet Charles