Review by Sandi Durell
A pro’s pro! Powerful! Intuitive! A voice that soars! Did I get your attention? Vivian Reed surely got mine on October 10 at MetropolitanZoom!
This new normal entertainment isn’t the easiest of platforms but it sure is the best as presented by creator Bernie Furshpan at MetropolitanZoom (yes, the former managing partner at the dearly beloved Metropolitan Room) where Ms. Reed gave her glittering celebrity sprinkled audience Standards and More.
From the opening medley including “Just One of Those Things”/”Almost Like Being in Love”/”I’m Gonna Live Till I Die” – this diva is one hot mama with a long successful career (Broadway’s Bubbling Brown Sugar – Tony Nominee).
Her energy is boundless whether she’s singing the American Songbook or playing with interpretive jazz skills on tunes like “Don’t Mess with My Man” and “Take the A Train” or whipping up a medley of songs including “One For My Baby” and “Blues in the Night” where she wails. Her wide vocal range gives her an unending latitude to do as she pleases and she pleases to do everything!
Quieter moments and her unique stylings give way to beautiful ballads like “Too Late Now” that offer great emotional impact.
Ms. Reed’s sexy side is ever present. She’s a free spirit, totally animated and has that ability to sing with complete abandon but always with that great professional touch that knows how, where and when to reign it in.
The perfect encore ending: “More” and “God Bless the Child.”
Vivian Reed’s message: “Just love each other.”
Musicians included:
William Foster McDaniel, Piano
Gary Foote, Bass
Damon Duewhite, Drums
Paul Swenson, Cello
There were some big hitters in that audience like Ernestine Jackson, Dionne Warwick, Freda Payne and more.
Next time you have the opportunity to see Vivian Reed perform don’t miss it! She’s dynamite!
