Jonathan Karrant: One for My Baby—The Johnny Mercer Songbook

  • Post author:
  • Reading time:3 mins read

Jonathan Karrant

One for My Baby—The Johnny Mercer Songbook

Myron’s at the Smith Center, Las Vegas, NV, September 25, 2024

Reviewed by Jeanie Carroll

Jonathan Karrant

In September 2024, I had the pleasure of visiting Las Vegas’ premiere cabaret and jazz venue, Myron’s at The Smith Center, a jewel in the heart of the desert. Myron’s hosts the best of the best, and this Jonathan Karrant concert was exceptional. His smooth, crooning voice sailed through a variety of tunes in this tribute to Johnny Mercer.

From “Summer Wind” (music by Heinz Meier) to “Autumn Leaves” (music by Joseph Kosma) and then to a lovely duet on “When October Goes” (music by Barry Manilow) that showcased the talent of special guest, Chadwick Johnson (a pop songster in his own right), it was a starry night indeed. Accompanied by stellar musicians—Jason Corpuz (piano), David Ostrem (bass), Paul Ringenbach (drums), and Charles McNeal (sax)—Karrant transported his audience back to a time when lyrics truly mattered. These players were the perfect complement to Jonathan’s fresh renditions of “Moon River” and “Charade” (both with music by Henry Mancini). He made the transitions seamless with his affectionate yet satirical banter, and he shared a piece of his soul with his warm wit and candor.

Karrant’s interpretation of “I Thought About You” (music by Jimmy Van Heusen) was heartbreakingly pure. “Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive” (music by Harold Arlen) was full of improvisation and virtuosity and brought a smile to all, as did the hilarious “Frasier (The Sensuous Lion).” In addition to this sensitive tribute to Mercer, Karrant included two songs from his latest album, Eclectic. He transformed the Motown sound of “Tracks of My Tears” (Smokey Robinson, Jr./Warren Moore/Marvin Tarplin) with his jazzy, sultry riffs that made it original and his own.

Currently traveling on a multi-city U.S. tour, Karrant will return to Las Vegas in time to perform at Reynolds Hall with the Las Vegas Philharmonic December 7 and at Myron’s with a holiday show, December 17 that features songs from his holiday album Christmas Wish. A new album is on the way for 2025; I can’t wait!

Jeanie Carroll

Jeanie Carroll, cabaret enthusiast and vocalist, has had a long and exciting career as a performer in many configurations: in Big Bands, with Jazz Combos; as a soloist/guitarist; being involved in Community Theatre; as a DJ; and as a Music Educator in Sedona and Las Vegas. Carroll frequently travels to participate in cabaret conferences from Chicago to Paris, France. Her passions include family, travel, languages, and teaching. When she has a night off from gigging, she loves attending and writing about high-caliber cabaret events!