Grant Windsor (pno/MD), A.D. Chivers (Gtr, maracas, harmony vcl), Simon Little (bs), Ben Reynolds (dms)
Clare didn't just walk on stage she "arrived" sylphlike and full of bounce with an easy, friendly manner that quickly won over the lively and appreciative audience.
Throughout the performance and between numbers she treat the full house to little chats, regaling us with snippets of her career and bringing everyone into the spirit of the show. Everybody loved Clare - it was a pleasure to be part of a value for money evening.
After kicking off with Fascinating Rhythm, Coffee Song, Get Happy, Love Hurts, and a polished Cheek to Cheek, there followed many faves which were too numerous to mention but I did think that she absolutely excelled in the Latin numbers. Particularly poignant was I Love You Porgy, and a tribute to Anita O'Day with Tea for Two. My personal fave was If I Were a Bell, and Cavatina also has to be mentioned in her tribute To Dame Cleo who is 82 next week.
Her MD/pianist, Grant Windsor, from 'Down Under' excelled in his accompaniment as did the rest of her band.
A.D. Chivers, first of all I thought he was surplus to needs, but he grew on us providing a bit of "showing off" which actually worked fine, he had a good rapport with Clare. On drums, Ben Reynolds, sensitive, young, excellent, looked like Jamie Cullum. Bassist, Simon Little, was also excellent , especially when he used his bow on some numbers.
Incidentally as I was getting my jacket she walked past me so I was able to truthfully say "Fab show" and was rewarded with a dazzling smile.
Liz.
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