You have to be careful how to describe Marion Montgomery’s performance at The Pizza on The Park. Careful that the chosen words will accurately reflect what you have witnessed.

You could for example call her a ‘veteran’ but that might make people think that she has long passed her prime and is merely going through the motions one more time, Not true. One word that could definitely be used would be striking. After a tantalising overture played by the Laurie Holloway trio she appears in the spotlight looking elegant in a white dress covered by a midnight blue tulle full-length coat, perfectly complimenting her immaculately styled sweep of hair.

Every single number she sang had a beguiling spontaneity to it, only thinking about it afterwards was it clear that a great deal of intelligent thought had also gone into each number. The first set contained an eclectic mix of songs from such standards as ‘Blue Moon’ and ‘Old Black Magic’ to newer material such as Earl Okin’s wonderfully evocative ‘Yesterday’s Wine’

Montgomery can change the pace of a song, the nuance of a lyric, making the phrasing daringly different and deliciously exciting as it leads you somewhere unexpectedly. It could be so easy to get wrong, but here not a mistake was made. For once ‘Fascinatin’ Rhythm’ was sung with exactly what the title suggests it should have, this was devilishly difficult but not one beat was missed which combined to make it a breathtaking example of the artistry of this singer at work

The second set found Montgomery in a more relaxed mood, seeming happier to communicate with the audience between numbers. The set largely consisted of Johnny Mercer numbers that segued into a Peggy Lee tribute. Among the Mercer songs were ‘Rain Or Shine’ and a beautifully delicate version of ‘Skylark’ The evening ended with a rousing version of ‘Georgia Brown’ and it was obvious from the audience reaction that they were reluctant for the evening to finally end/

It is clear that the continued professional, as well as personal, partnership with Laurie Holloway is a major aspect in creating a show of this high calibre, mention must also be made to Martin Drew and Mario Castronari for their contribution on drums and bass respectively.

Any budding cabaret singer should go out of their way to see Marion Montgomery perform. She is the epitome of what the genre is about, Thank goodness she is still choosing to grace the cabaret scene with her totally exceptional talent and that distinctive smoky voice, that stills sounds as good today as it always has. It is an added bonus that she seems to be so thoroughly enjoying what she is doing. Long may it remain so.