It’s been claimed that this show features “captivating vocals” and “humorous anecdotes”. Sadly, the claims proves exaggerated. Likeable though Chris Clark is, the front-man of a nostalgic, Great-American-Songbook outfit needs to be far more charismatic. None of the anecdotes raise a laugh, and the vocals are merely fine, and certainly nothing special. The band (keyboard, drums, upright bass)  are musically competent, but provide little more than backing for a dedicated but ultimately anodyne vocalist. The one exception is Jordie Gilmour, a superb jazz/rock drummer who looks likely to go far further than his front-man. Even die-hard fans of Fitzgerald, Porter and the Gershwins’ will find nothing more here than pleasant nostalgia.

The Outhouse, until 8 Aug (not 6), 9.00pm.
tw rating 2/5 | [Arjun Sajip]