Julia Huff

As usual at Music Monday, radio personality and MC Cliff Kelly introduced the "Maven of the Microphone," Sue Conway to open the evening's program with a selection. Sue appropriately chose to pay homage to the late Lena Horne who passed away a day prior to this event. Sue did justice to Lena's classic version of "Stormy Weather."

Ms. Huff, splendidly attired and backed by keyboardist Joel Burt, bassist Mark Sorksen and drummer Khari Parker, opened with "People Make The World Go Round". Julia's a stylist with charm and charisma and knows how to effectively work a room, as she did on her second number, "Rio de Janeiro Blues". She puts her entire heart and sole in every note that comes out of her mouth as if it was her last. Other standards rendered during the first set included Sarah Vaughn's s Latin tinged "The Island" (Julia confessed to having a love for Latin Rhythms), "Here's To Life" and "Cherokee."It was on this number that the band hit its peak; especially the extended solos of Burt and Parker. Both are veteran sidemen with Parker having spent considerable time the past few years touring with Boz Scaggs.

Julia, having recently portrayed the late Phyllis Hyman during a successful concert, wowed the audience with Phyllis's "Betcha By Golly Wow." Burt was again very effective accompanying her with his extended solo. Julia doesn't simply imitate artists, but puts her on signature on these timeless numbers. This was another crowd pleaser.

Ms. Huff included this exceptional evening of song with a number requested by her cousin that was one of her father's favorites, "Send In The Clowns." One could feel the emotions that she put into that selection as she dug deep while singing this special number. It was truly heartfelt by all. A nice touch to conclude an excellent performance.

Julia can be seen the 2nd and 4th Sundays from 8pm to 11pm at the "South Loop Hotel" on 26th Street. For future ETA events, refer to their website at www.etacreativearts.org.