My second review of Broadway Records latest vocal releases is another in my favourite series, Live At Feinstein'ss/54 Below, this time featuring the wonderful Lesli Margherita. For those of you who don’t know Lesli, the PR states... "Olivier Award winner Lesli Margherita (Matilda, Dames at Sea, Zorro) delivers her signature cabaret show, which critics have hailed as 'outrageous', 'rip-roaring' and 'fiercely original.' With her take-no-prisoners attitude and self-deprecating humour, Margherita 'inspires', 'uplifts', and 'slaps you across the face' – and let’s be honest, everyone needs a good slap in the face every once in a while. From memorable favourites with a twist to stories bound to become classics, Margherita’s show-stopping set will leave you screaming 'Yaaas!' Sparkle or do not; there is no try. Rule Your Kingdom..."

So, with an introduction like that, I looked forward to hearing the album! Thankfully to say, it wasn’t just hype. This is an album that really doesn’t let up, and I would have loved to have experienced the show live. Right from when she tells the audience not to expect to hear the numbers she’s famous for (“should have seen the shows in the first place to hear those”) this is clearly a well thought out, and well written evening. The monologues and stories are extremely clever and original, and give a good insight into Lesli and her great personality.

The songs are again well thought out and never too serious. ‘Part Of Your World’ is sung lovely, and the interjections and story are very humorous. I loved ‘Don’t Poop On My Pathway’ - a very clever arrangement too. The more serious numbers are excellent, and really make this into a show rather than a straight concert. 'Wouldn’t It Be Good' and 'That’s Life' both again benefit from glorious arrangements, and complement Lesli’s great vocal perfectly. The show closes with a powerful rendition of ‘My Man’ which clearly pleased the audience, and me as well.

Another great release from Broadway Records, with everything that makes their releases that little bit special.

8

Ian Gude