I admit I had no prior knowledge of this artist before attending his sold out show at the Rrazz Room. I did my research. Apparently he’s quite famous—his songs, recorded by over 100 artists, have sold more than 40 million units, he’s a capable musician and actor, penned music for the big and small screens, and has a feverish fan base in Asia. Well I now know that this guy puts on one helluva satisfying show.

Opening with a big band R&B version of "Don’t Lead Me On," the smooth pop ballad "Heart of Mine" and "Comin Down from Love," Caldwell showed off his blue-eyed soul stylings with great backup vocals and some sexy sax work by Patrick Lamb. "Real Thing" and his mega hit, "What You Won’t Do For Love" were sensational, the arrangements tight and Caldwell’s vocals more resonant and sultry than ever.

Mid-set, he turned into a mellow crooner with lovely arrangements of"Stuck on You" and "Beyond the Sea." Comparisons to Frank Sinatra (whom he played on stage) and Mel Torme jump to mind. He closed the show out with some huge R&B, Latin flavored and funky jazz groove hits ("Where is the Love," "In the Afterlife"  and "All or Nothing At All") before blowing down the house with an extended "At Last."

I enjoyed Caldwell’s confidence and swagger, well founded in his success and ability. His music is timeless, energetic and addicting. No wonder the guy is world renown. The Rrazz Room’s opening season has offered some of the finest artists in their respective genres and Bobby Caldwell continues the pattern.

Steve Murray
Cabaret Scenes
May 29, 2008
www.cabaretscenes.org