L.to R.: Paul Morin -bass, Enzo Todesco-drums, Elaine Miles-vocals and John Chiodini-guitar©Glenn A. Mitchell

A pleasant, captivating show was presented by vocalist Elaine Miles on June 10th at Steamers, along with her incomparable guitarist, John Chiodini.  Bassist Paul Morin and drummer Enzo Todesco made up the rhythm section. Miles, originally from Connecticut, has spent her career performing, writing music and recording her soon-to-be-released CD.  She has quite a wide set of selections – all from some well-known standards and popular tunes from recent time. 

Beginning with a tune I wasn’t familiar with, “So Near and Yet So Far” by Cole Porter had some pretty melody and lyrics.  Miles has magnificent stage presence and is a beautiful woman.  Her voice is clear and distinctive, bringing each song perfectly to the audience this evening.  The Chiodini Trio played brilliantly.  I had not heard Chiodini before, but his performing was beyond compare.  Morin and Todesco worked as though they’d been doing the gig for many years.  A Harry Connick song, “Forever for Now,” followed (also new to me), but I enjoyed it.  The popular “Loving You” was a straight-up wonderful selection. Miles and Chiodini trio made it shine.  A highlight, “Lover,” played in double time as a samba shuffle, came off in top form.  Chiodini, Morin and Todesco gave their best solos. 

Ballads that were nicely soulful included “Time After Time” and the gorgeous “In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning.” Miles and Chiodini wrote a song together, “Carmen’s Lament.”  This pretty tune will be on their new CD and played well to the audience, which was pretty receptive during the entire show.  Other numbers included “Since I Fell For You,” a bouncy “Puttin’ On the Ritz,” “Kiss and Run” (some fine vocal and solos by Miles, Chiodini and Morin) and, for the set’s closer, a groovy samba version of “Secret Love” with an amazing percussion solo by Enzo Todesco.   I recommend this show.  They will be at Steamers again in the near future.  Visit Elaine Miles website: www.ElaineMiles.com.   

Reprinted with permission from L.A. Jazz Scene, July, 2009 issue. 

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