Don Dillingham and the North Metro Jazz Collective made musical magic in a Nat King Cole tribute that transported listeners to a time and place long past but not forgotten. With songs still familiar to today’s audiences and a few lesser-known gems, Dillingham guided a packed theatre through Cole’s life and career with ease and a not-inconsiderable dose of charm and humor.
…demonstrating their own musical mastery in solos that truly captured the essence of an era—all of which made for a truly “unforgettable” afternoon.
The Arts Barn served as the ideal venue for an intimate afternoon of Nat King Cole classics. Featuring such favorites as “Mona Lisa,” “Sweet Lorraine,” and “When I Fall in Love,” Dillingham’s smooth baritone conjured the ease and grace that was Cole’s signature style, while the crowd of Cole enthusiasts alternately swayed their bodies, tapped their toes, and even sang along in a rousing version of “Quizas, Quizas, Quizas.”
Jacie Lee’s sultry and passionate soprano was a highlight of the program, particularly when she joined Dillingham in a lively and spirited rendition of “L-O-V-E.” Other songs included “Send for me,” “Nature Boy,” and “Walking My Baby Back Home,” each of which was brought to life by jazz musicians Cyndy Elliot (bass), Terry Koger (saxophone), Darrell Taylor (percussion), and Don Wolcott (piano and guitar) who were collaborative artists in every sense, supporting Dillingham’s vocals, as well as demonstrating their own musical mastery in solos that truly captured the essence of an era—all of which made for a truly “unforgettable” afternoon.
Running Time: Approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes with one intermission.
“Unforgettable: A Nat King Cole Tribute” ran through January 19 at the Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878. For information about the show, click here. For information about future Arts Barn events, click here.
