One of the biggest obstacles facing performers when putting together a set is how to get new mileage out of old standards - particularly when choosing material for a tribute or theme show. And, while the songs of Neil Sedaka are not exactly considered “old standards,” by the generalized definition of that Sinatra-esque expression, that's basically what they've become as their respective place in the American pop musical bandstand evolves. In other words, they are great rock and roll songs, mostly made famous by pop music stars from another era recorded at the height of their fame (1950's-70's.) Over the decades, stars as diverse as Connie Francis (who had hits with several Sedaka songs,) Annette Funicello, Andy Williams, The Fifth Dimension and The Carpenters were once the Michael Jackson's of their era. Aided by the sharp yet easy going direction of Brian Lane Green with gifted musical director/arranger Tim Di Pasqua at the piano, Jim Van Slyke's The Sedaka Show is a winner – hands down.

The smooth voiced expressive crooner has managed to accomplish the best of the old by putting a new spin on some pop evergreens from the past penned by Neil Sedaka. The Sedaka Show deserves serious recognition for what it is – a well structured, dynamic show by an artist overdue for more recognition. If audience response still counts as a criteria, this show has the commercial appeal to move to larger venues.

Wisely, Van Slyke never attempts to impersonate his musical muse. Their voices are not even similar. Rather, he lends his own mellifluously supple tenor to Sedaka's songs. The results are a show that is rich in detail as well as honest in emotion. And, he has a happy persona that ingratiates him to an audience. In other words, in an age of self-indulgent overkill in night clubs by over-rated performers who thrive in cabaret through misguided back-slapping, Van Slyke has found a way to endear himself to his audience with a great vocal sound, intelligence and professionalism. And, it's all about as entertaining as it can get. But then, look at the songs; they echo the soundtrack of a generation that still exists today who danced to these tunes and knows every word. On the other hand, a newer generation deserves to discover these gems. For instance, a Doo-Wop medley incorporates the likes of, “Oh, Carol” (written after Sedaka's breakup with then girlfriend Carole King,) “Calendar Girl,” “Happy Birthday, Sweet Sixteen,” and the hugely popular “Where The Boys Are” are songs that are not linked with perennials like “Melancholy Baby” or “My Funny Valentine” but had half the room tapping their feet and/or singing along. It's bubble-gum pop. And, it has staying power to millions of Sedaka fans who still worship him. One can only imagine how all this would sound with a full band backing him. But those songs were the whimsical side of this songwriter from Brooklyn with ties to The Brill Building. On a more serious note, it's easy to forget that Sedaka wrote some of the most beautifully romantic and profound love songs like “The Hungry Years” (with Howard Greenfield) and special gems recorded most famously by cult legend Jane Olivor, “One More Ride On The Merry Go-Round” (also with Greenfield) and the gorgeous “Solitaire” (with Phil Cody.) To reveal more would spoil some of the surprises in this exceptional show. Throughout, Van Slyke's amusing patter is insightful and full of charm as he shares anecdotes and milestones from Sedaka's life.

Overall, Neil Sedaka is one of today's most prolific and enduring contemporary songwriters. His importance and influence cannot be underestimated. Jim Van Slyke is the courier of his silly love songs and smart academia in the pop world. He easily puts his own stamp on the songs and makes them his own along the way. And what better way to do it than with one of pop music's most beloved songwriters. The show has the potential to move to bigger arenas and, with luck a wider audience beyond cabaret will get to see this show that breathes new life into Sedaka's eclectic catalog of tunes. Mr. Sedaka already attended the show and was full of praise for Van Slyke. And with good reason.

Jim Van Slyke returns to The Laurie Beechman Theater on Wednesday, July 1 for an encore performance. Additional performances have not been announced as yet,.