Top Duos of 2010:
· Liz Callaway & Ann Hampton Callaway: Genetics are a plus, but only a smidgen of what made this sister act heavenly.
· Cheryl Bentyne & Mark Winkler: These two blend beautifully & are among the finest in the art of West Coast Cool jazz.
Top 2010 Jazz Vocalists:
· Diane Schuur tore the roof off, channeling something far greater than anyone could put their finger on. Astounding.
· Paula West (with the George Mesterhazy Quartet) was sublime, a dream of an evening. I'm thrilled to say she's returning for an 8-week run at RRazz beginning late January.
Top 2010 Headliners:
· Christine Ebersole: Wit, charm, humor & a widely-expressive instrument combined for what was one of the most exquisite cabaret events.
· Sam Harris: I saw Sam thrice during his RRazz run, each performance felt as though seeing it the first time. Connecting to audiences with dynamite synergy from accompanist/ music director Todd Schroeder, Sam is well beyond the rainbow - he's the pot of gold.
· Liz Callaway: A lyric elevates, shimmers, revealing new emotional breadth with her artistry. Astounding. (for her JCC Sondheim tribute show).
· Karen Mason: Incandescent. Piercing. Mesmerizing. I'm a new fan.
· Chita Rivera: When someone's artistry continues to refine much as a great armagnac does, the experience is heady, intoxicating, alluring - all distilled in one gorgeous decanter.
· Janis Paige: Her life & career defied categorizing. Her artistry, at age 88, cannot be contained in an avalanche of superlatives. I'll use one: Sublime.
Top Original of 2010:
· Valarie Pettiford: This divine creature's program of all-original material by masterful music-makers Ron Abel & Chuck Steffan made completely new music feel like beloved long-time favorites. Kudos to these three.
· Denise Perrier: I had the honor of hearing this exceptional artist at Yoshi's. Originality is in the singularity of her instrument. Other artists you can hear definite influences. Ms. Perrier is incomparable.
Top Special Event 2010:
The Angela Bofill Experience featured The Angel of the Night narrating her life with courage, humility & humor. An all-star group of musicians blew the roof off the RRazz Room: Phil Perry, Maysa, Dave Valentin, Kevin Walker, Kim Waters, Norm Connors & more.
A nod to C.O.O.L. Cabaret Festival, focused on local talent. Much to love about this ambitious festival, which could well be a yearly event.
Top Presenter 2010:
Marilyn Levinson of Bay Area Cabaret, who reopened the iconic Venetian Room (a major cap-feather!) this year. Marilyn also started the visionary series "BAC 2.0" for the Next Generation of Cabaret-Goers.
Top 2011 SF Watch List:
· Amanda King
· Veronica Klaus
· Carly Ozard
Three very different artists with one thing in common: Talent.
"Jazz & Cocktails" can be found at SFBayTimes.com or on Facebook under "Jazz & Cocktails - the Lush Cabaret Life."
Photo Credit: Walter McBride/WM Photos
