In his dynamic new show "Newley
Discovered," previewed recently at Odette's in New Hope, big band singer
Eddie Bruce proved himself a winner on all counts. When I last saw him
about two years ago at Danny's Skylight Room, he put on a good, if slightly
uneven, show.Well, that's all changed. Bruce has definitely gone to the
next level. The popular band singer from Philadelphia is a handsome, thirty-something
baritone who has clearly worked on his craft and now has a lot going for
him.
 Putting together a theme show
built around a theatrical composer-lyricist can present big problems. Some
of the most beautiful songs may have lyrics so dramatically specific that
it's virtually impossible to isolate and highlight the song out of context.
Virtually, but not impossible as Bruce proves. The act, a loving tribute
to Newley, mixed his most famous songs with some terrific anecdotes, showing
Bruce off on several levels. He can belt to the rafters, as in a definitive "Once
in a Lifetime," or create more intimate moments with his softer tones,
as in a tender "Something In You." Other standouts included animated, emotionally
potent versions of "The Joker" and "What Kind of Fool Am I." Singing someone
else's famous songs is risky.
You set yourself up for comparison with classic performances burned into
your memory. Bruce pulled it off through his totally winning charisma and
clear respect for Newley's powerful writing. Under the brilliant musical
direction of Dean Schneider, Bruce put together a demanding act with old-fashioned
show biz flair.From playing the sad clown (a la Newley) to breaking your
heart with a magical interpretation of "The Man Who Makes You Laugh," which
gave Bruce his finest moment, this is a show that should have a life, Eddie
Bruce is ready to make the leap into the serious big time. He's on his
way to making waves-big ones. |
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