Sterling's Showcases Everman, Captivating & Zany

REVIEW CONTRIBUTED BY:  CAROLINE COBRIN

The ever charming Sterling’s Upstairs at Vitello’s dinner club was a packed house this past Saturday evening as it celebrated two and a half years of memorable performances with a wonderful show by Allen Everman. 

From the moment he jumped onto the stage, Everman had the audience captivated by his zany personality and incredible talent.  A gifted vocalist and talented pianist, Everman showcased his, in his own words, “A.D.D.” personality from start to finish with a truly spastic set list.  Ranging from jazz standards to original songs, even touching on a “can’t catch my breath” character medley, Everman showed the audience a little bit of everything. 

Everman had guests and multimedia events sprinkled throughout his set list, which added a sense of fraternity, and, dare I say, family, to his performance.  With his parents in the front row, a slide show and song about his brothers, the appearance of his girlfriend Cassandra Murphy, and his friend Patrick popping up and down playing the Cajon drum,  Everman’s show was a true family affair, even if he did have trouble remembering and pronouncing several of his guests’ names.  

The most touching moments of the evening were when Everman slowed down and really connected to what he was singing.  He delighted the audience with the song “Nothing In Common” by Jason Robert Brown, which he dedicated to his brothers, and which was enhanced by a photo montage timed to the lyrics.  One of his brothers was in the audience, and stood up afterwards for a hug. It was a tender moment to watch.  The other highlight of the evening was when Everman sang an original song entitled “Jamie.” Though simple in verse, the song was beautiful, and the entire audience could hear the way that Everman’s voice was slightly strained due to his own emotional connection with the song.  It was poignant moments like that that truly added the strength to his performance. 

At one point Everman and his friends attempted a quartet of “Lily’s Eyes” and “In His Eyes” from The Secret Garden and Jekyll & Hyde, respectively.  Though each song is strong in its own respect, the combining of the two took away from the beauty of each song, instead of adding to it.  “Lily’s Eyes is such a beautiful song, and I wish Everman would have just sung it straight.   

Though enjoyable all around, Everman would benefit from some light editing of his banter, his attempts at jokes, and his set list. Sticking to true, honest emotion would increase the power of his performance, as that is where his true, undeniable talent is.   

Vitello's is located at 4349 Tujunga Ave. Studio City, CA 91604.  Valet Parking is available.  For additional information on Sterling's Upstairs, please visit the club's web site at: www.myspace.com/sterlingsupstairs. 

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