George Ball: Think of Me
George Ball
Think of Me
(LML Music)
September 30, 2015
Reviewed by John Hoglund for Cabaret Scenes
George Ball finally got to the party. And he did it in style. After a lot of procrastinating, he finally cut a debut CD. And what a treat it is. Listening to his legit bass-baritone bring emotional balance, a hint of good humor where needed, and depth to everything he sings makes one realize the crucial role good instincts play in the self-confessional world of intimate singing.
A theatrical singer, with a controlled vibrato, Ball has mastered the art of subtlety. His gentle nuances on the likes of a powerhouse like “Some Enchanted Evening” are proof enough that he knows how to convey soaring emotions without the need to shatter glass. It is this and other similar musical instincts that make Think of Me so special.
Ball, along with musical director/arranger Michele Brourman, offers a memorable mix worthy of attention. The superb musicians couldn’t have done a better job, with Brourman (piano, keyboards), Stephan Oberhoff (accordion, guitars, organ, flugelhorn, drums, percussion), Larry Tuttle (bass), Robert Tyler (flute, saxophone), Kendall Kay (drums), Debra Dobkins (additional drums) with Rob Throw and Ball’s wife, Amanda McBroom, on occasional backup vocals.
The eclectic album is not limited to cabaret songs. It has some exciting surprises, like trenchant readings on the likes of Bruce Springsteen’s “Highway Patrolman” and Billy Vera’s “Hopeless Romantic.” On both, he is a master storyteller. The same treatment is applied to the album’s stunning title cut (Mike Reid), given a spellbinding reading that lingers. Each track is carefully molded with just the right balance of drama fused with simple truths that are wistful and sincere. Other highlights include haunting deliveries on Brel/Blau/Shuman’s “Fannette,” the Anderson/Weill staple “September Song” and Hugh Prestwood’s “The Moon Is Still Over Her Shoulder.” Collectively, these ballads never bore in the hands of Ball. This is a high quality album worthy of a sequel.
Category: Music, Music Reviews, New York City, New York City Music Reviews
