By Victoria Dammer
Vocalist Naama Gherber, accompanied by Ben Paterson on piano, Neal Miner on Bass, and Evan Sherman on drums, entertained the audience at Birdland Jazz Club on January 10 with her smooth as honey, exquisite voice.
Gherber’s selection of songs included “S’Wonderful,” composed in 1927 by George Gershwin with lyrics by Ira Gershwin, Cole Porter’s 1935 hit “I Get a Kick Out of You,” and Walter Donaldson’s 1930s hit “You’re Driving Me Crazy.”
She also sang the Nancy Wilson song “Oh! Look at Me Now,” and another Cole Porter hit “So In Love.” Gherber sang 14 songs, including duets with her band members and a hauntingly beautiful duet, “I’m a Fool to Want You,” with Paterson. Each song ended with an enthusiastic round of applause.
Grammy-nominated producer and trumpeter Carlos Abadie, a constant presence on the New York jazz scene, was the evening’s special guest and didn’t disappoint.
Gherber was approachable at the end of her performance, offering to autograph her CD for patrons.
Gherber was born in the southern city of Be’er Sheva in Israel in 1991, and moved with her family to Baltimore. Her parents wanted her to be a pianist, but those who were lucky enough to see and hear her interpretations of fourteen jazz and classical songs were thankful she forged her own path. Her voice is a beautiful gift, and her natural sway to the music she sang was stirring.
Educated at The New School in NYC, Gherber has performed in Europe at a variety of jazz clubs and festivals and can be found performing at famous venues such as Smalls Jazz Club, Mezzrow Jazz Club, and others.
Jazz enthusiasts should make a point of seeing Gherber in concert in 2022.
Gherber’s debut album, “Dearly Beloved,” released in 2020, featured vibraphonist Steve Nelson, pianist Ray Gallon, bassist David Wong, and drummer Aaron Kimmel.
Birdland Jazz Club. 315 West 44th Street, NY 10036. 212-581-3080.Tickets can be purchased at www.birdlandjazz.com.
