Devlin

“Obnoxiously in love and not knowing who I am,” is the description given by jazz/blues stylist Devlin in her recent series of shows, “The Places You Find Love” at Don't Tell Mama for the state of mind that others may call romantic permanence. And, by the end of her compelling set, this California based actress/singer had run the gamut of love's spoils and performed more than a handful of songs that illustrated the dichotomies wrought in achieving that state while navigating the see-saw stages of romance. That particular set up preceded the odd pairing of k.d. Lang's “Miss Chatelaine” with Irving Berlin's whimsical “Cheek To Cheek” that was a highlight in this show fueled by some well chosen musical missiles.

Both added a lighter touch in a ballad laden set that introduced a singer who, much like Cassandra Wilson and Nancy Wilson, shows passion while not bound by categories and feels free to go any musical place that suits her. In the world of cabaret, too often, singers pigeon hole themselves whilst trying to achieve an alternate identity that critics will accept. Devlin proved she can stretch herself from cool jazz to honkey tonk brassiness when she likes. And, on the right song, she becomes her own person holding the room in the palm of her hand. This was particularly evident on the likes of several high spots like readings of “Crazy He Calls Me” (Sigman-Russell) and “Louisiana Sunday Afternoon” (Golde-Ivers.) Here, with a New Orleans jazz-invoked influence, she was at home emoting a penchant for soul searching that she might expand on in future shows. She also conveyed empathy over contempt on “You Don't Know What Love Is.” (Depaul-Raye.) Such warmth and vulnerability became her greatest strength throughout the hour.

Occasional bland patter lent itself to triteness where less or none would have sufficed. Still rather new to Manhattan audiences, in lieu of attempts at being clever, she might have shared more of who she is. She seems vibrant and full of fun but not much of that was in her act. Vocally, her smoky alto has perfect intonation that speaks volumes when she interprets a melody. And, she has the ability to go beyond that and personalize lyrics with a natural delivery that is painfully honest. Consequently, this should not be clouded by over-rehearsed chit chat when setting up a serious song that already speaks for itself and has a point of view. While “Kiss Me” by Koutrakos was beautifully delivered, distracting facial expressions diminished what might have been an even stronger moment. Annie Lennox's risky, angst-ridden signature anthem, “Why” was less effective as it suffered from the opposite. More dynamics were called for on this frenetic, yearning torch song that crescendos before the final lyric. Once she moves beyond those few coy, eager to please mannerisms, and as her self confidence grows, she will complete what is the start of a calm center sparked by a mischievous sexiness. Then, she will fully realize how very effective she really is and she will become the contender she has the ingredients to be.

Resurrecting Laura Nyro's lively “Time And Love” made for the perfect closer. Minor quibbles asunder, Devlin really is a new force on the crossover cabaret/jazz scene and well on the way to making waves.

Rick Jensen's stylish arrangements were engaging, well structured and captured the perfect musical essence albeit blues, jazz or simple background complemented by Dan Martin's bass. The simplicity of a warmly sung “Ask Me Again” (Gershwin) made for a tasty encore by a lady with a velvety voice who deserves to be taken seriously. In an industry cluttered with mediocrity, Devlin's a keeper.

This engagement celebrated the release of her first album, “Devlin Live in New York.” The self produced CD has many ingredients found on some memorable albums from another era when substance prevailed over style.

Don't Tell Mama
212-757-0788. after 4:00 PM daily
343 West 46th Street