Nat King Cole is one of the great American jazz vocalists of the 20th century. He recorded over one hundred songs with his iconic smooth crooning voice. Cole was a man who loved love and this is evident in his work.
The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Jack Everly sought out to honor Cole and his legacy with vocalist Denzal Sinclaire. They put on a night of music full of joy and love celebrating Cole’s work featuring such popular hits as “When I Fall in Love,” “L-O-V-E,” and “I’ve Got the World on a String.”
The Nat King Cole Songbook was a beautiful night of music and love.
Everly leads the BSO with such a charmingly effortless style. He casually sways to the music as he conducts almost like a little dance. This particular program allowed instrumentalists from each section be showcased and highlighted for a little bit, celebrating that great jazz tradition.
Sinclair has truly mastered Cole’s sound. His voice is soothing and smooth, finding the beautiful balance between dark and light tones. He is also a gifted instrumentalist, playing the guitar and melodica at different times. He like Cole loves to sing about love. He also loves to share about love and Cole, speaking easily between songs to give a little background. From the haunting sounds of “Nature Boy,” to the upbeat Gospel inspired “Straighten Up and Fly Right,” to the encore performance of the stunning love ballad “Unforgettable,” Sinclair’s voice encapsulated the sounds and told the story.
The Nat King Cole Songbook was a beautiful night of music and love. Sinclair and the BSO created an evening of romance that left the audience feeling inspired and warm.
Running Time: 2 hours with one intermission.
“The Nat King Cole Songbook” will run through October 13. For tickets and more information click here.
