Customer Reviews

Chris Calloway Live At Espiritu

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Having had the opportunity to experience a live Chris Calloway concert, I was pleased to discover the CD "Live at Espiritu". In person, Calloway delivers a dynamic performance, from sultry ballads to sexy, enticing "sleaze". Along with her incredible vocal talent, comes a witty and charming banter between songs that not only entertains, but provides an insight into the Calloway tradition and legacy of dad, Cab and aunt, Blanche.

The CD captures the essence of a live Chris Calloway performance. The opening song, "Brazil" sets the tone for an exciting "live" experience. Drummer, Ricky Malachi, keeps an engaging groove happening from the opening beat to the final chorus of "Minnie the Moocher". Pianist, Sharon Shaheen and bassist, John Blackburn, round out the trio with solid playing and tasteful solos.

Calloway provides us with a tour through musical history with her renditions of tunes by Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, Harold Arlen and of course, Cab Calloway.

A wonderful surprise on the album is the inclusion of two songs by a very talented singer, Madi Sato. On "Willow Weep for me", a solid blues inflected voice reflects the southern upbringing of this fine vocalist.

The show culminates with the infamous call and response story of "Minnie the Moocher". If you have the opportunity to hear Chris Calloway "live", do it. Until then, this recording will provides a very memorable and engaging listening experience.

Not being a fan of live recordings, I admit Live At Espiritu captures the remarkable energy of Ms. Calloway's performances. The CD is excellently produced and finely recorded. Among the many standards, are signiture songs sung in loving tribute to her father, Cab, and are executed with wit and pleasure. Listening to this live CD, you will feel as though Club Espiritu was brought into your living room. The band members, Sharon Shaheen, John Blackburn and Ricky Malichi are in top form, the audience enthusiastic, and most of all, Chris does what she does so well: delivers! Santa Fe has been blessed to have an entertainer of her calibre for years. Seen her live? Indeed, I have, and this CD is the closest any live recording can take you to "being there"! Yes, Chris Calloway is an (as yet) undiscovered legend worthy of uncovering.

Remarkable. Should be a star and better known. Needs a publicist if she chooses to go that route.

I purchased this CD for a friend and she was pleased when I gave it to her.

Had the extreme pleasure of attending a Chris Calloway concert recently. I went, not knowing what to expect, only knowing that I've always enjoyed seeing the filmed footage of her father's performances at the famed Cotton Club. It turned out to be a wonderful show. This lady is marvelously talented and personable. An astonishing voice, at times sultry, sexy, husky, vibrant, with an exquisite sense of timing and phrasing...and if you listen carefully, you'll hear her dad in there in the way she sometimes holds a note. In short, one of the best vocalists that you've never heard of. If you ever have the opportunity to see her show, don't hesitate. And also check out this great CD which comes close to capturing the live experience. You'll find a wide range of styles and rhythms, her engaging stage presence, and that glorious voice. Try it, you'll love it.