Comments Michael Feinstein, “For years, I have wanted to celebrate Frank Sinatra’s musical sensibilities – not to copy his classic songs, but to create an album that would explore his style of singing and his style of music.”  The result is a new CD, “The Sinatra Project,” recorded by Michael and a 17-piece orchestra, led by conductor/arranger Bill Elliot, and brought to joyous life onstage at Feinstein’s at Loews Regency.

It’s a magical show. The songs alone are a joy: familiar standards by Rodgers and Hart, the Gershwins, Kern, Hammerstein, Cahn and others associated with Sinatra. Also included: a discovery such as “The Same Hello, The Same Goodbye,” echoing Sinatra’s own romantic life, written for him by John Williams and the Bergmans but never performed. Cole Porter’s “Begin the Beguine," recorded by Sinatra in one arrangement, was presented by Michael and the band in “as if” Nelson Riddle style. 

The audience was invited to join in on “I’ve Got a Crush on You,” featuring Bucky Pizzarelli on guitar.

The show includes a major revelation: Michael himself, who has grown dramatically as a performer. His voice is richer than ever, displaying greater range that includes a sweet, unforced falsetto. His charm and humor are relaxed and natural, and his obvious love of the music is infectious. He is, more than ever, a major star.

The room was densely packed with patrons; it’s a tribute to manager John Iachetti, hostess Jessica Poli, and the room’s wait-staff that the crowd was handled with warmth and courtesy.

Peter Haas
Cabaret Scenes
September 4, 2008
www.cabaretscenes.org