Jazz music quite often runs the risk of being self-indulgent; its cultural roots date back to the late 19th century.
This ‘ain’t’ your usual shady New Orleans jazz spot but the Main House space at Hull Truck Theatre. The somewhat reserved crowd tonight, though subdued and upright, seemed to appreciate the quality of the work with pulse-keeping, foot tapping and subtle golf claps far removed from the sleazy, smoky Louisianan juice-joints.
Clare Teal has, for years, delighted audiences with her easy-listening style – both as a radio DJ (16 years on BBC Radio 2 and now Jazz FM) and as a singer of jazz and swing.
Belting out hits from her catalogue of covers she feels comfortable within the genre and completely at home.
The show starts suddenly with no pre-show background music to warm us up but, as soon as she sings her first note it hits you like a strong Bourbon.
Backed by a small band of 3 (Jason Rebello – Piano, Simon Little – Bass and Will Cleasby – Drums), this casual evening of song hangs loose in the Thrust Space with live lounge vibes from the Great American Songbook and beyond. The band provide crisp harmonies to our lead vocalist and Cleasby on percussion really makes that drum kit sing! The musical arrangements are a joy and song choices are well framed, suiting the programme brilliantly. Teal’s skill at Scat and Bebop are wonderful but the real star here is the quality of her singing voice. Relaxed in her surroundings, she really is a seasoned-pro performing as if for the first time this evening. After a marvellous rendition of Sinatra’s The Way You Look to Tonight to close act 1 we are treated to more great classic songs and accolades in act 2 including a superb arrangement of The Beatles’ song Blackbird and the impressively dream-like Let’s Do It, originally conceived by Cole Porter.
Teal sings with an ardent and passionate flair and with great mic control. She demonstrates a secure yet relaxed vocal technique and builds up a strong rapport with her fellow musicians and audience alike. She creates a warming atmosphere and, even though her performance venue made the show feel somewhat diluted, the wonderful renditions of these timeless songs make for a really soothing and palatable evening. There’s even a double encore – if you’re lucky!
Reviewed on 18th February. Touring the UK.
