Jazz & Pop Reviews : Barbara McNair Hosts New Voices of ’92

Barbara McNair is sharing the stage at the Cinegrill this week with a group of performers called the New Voices of ’92.

The effort to associate the presentation with Broadway’s classic “New Faces” shows of the past was obvious. But Tuesday’s opening night seemed far more like a showcase than a well-crafted cabaret event.

All four New Voices--singers Tom Burns, Hillary Turk, J’ai and Gustavo Rex--were bright, enthusiastic and not without talent. Burns brought a touch of whimsy to his numbers; Turk had the larger-than-life sound of a Broadway belter; J’ai sang the blues with an effective blend of sensuality and humor; and Rex was romantic in three languages.

None of the performers, however, indicated a real ability to grab the spotlight and hold it. And their choice of material--including a weak medley sung as a quartet--was surprisingly insubstantial for singers eager to make a big impression.

McNair, professional that she is, opened her part of program with a powerful Ellington medley, added the satirical “Nina, From Argentina” and concluded with the only wearisome number in her program, the inevitable “I’m Still Here.”

Well aware of the relatively small confines of the Cinegrill, McNair shaped her interpretations precisely--never too intimate, never overpowering the room. She was especially appealing with an exquisite reading of “In a Sentimental Mood,” and revealed a solid capacity to swing in an upbeat romp through “Take the ‘A’ Train.”

The four New Voices would do well to carefully observe McNair’s smoothly authoritative mastery of all the aspects of the craft of performance. The engagement continues through Saturday.