For a performer, the move from Chelsea to the Upper East Side takes more than a Metrocard. The journey from a big, easy-going room to a more intimate, more formal space often asks the singer to adjust style—perhaps to one that’s more reserved and more “professional,” yet retaining the charm and spirit that made the individual a favorite in the first place.

Julie Reyburn has made the journey—with flying colors. In her start-of-the-year debut at Feinstein’s, her first song, “Do I Hear a Waltz?”—sweet and heartfelt—brought cheers of happiness for her from friends old and new. The rest of the evening followed suit as Julie’s warm and mellow voice, hitting the notes with simplicity and honesty, filled the stage in a smartly paced, minimal patter program of standards. Songs ranged from oldies by Irving Berlin, Rodgers and Hart, Arlen and Harburg, Mancini and Mercer to works by Shire and Maltby, Sondheim, Louis Prima, and a newer piece, "Come Home," by Julie’s musical director, Mark Janas, and the show’s director, Peter Napolitano. Janas was also pianist, with Ritt Henn on bass, as the duo provided light-stepping, imaginative arrangements.

The evening was the kick-off of a new, popular-priced series of Monday and Tuesday evenings at Feinstein’s.

Peter Haas
Cabaret Scenes
January 6, 2009
www.cabaretscenes.org