Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Jackie Tohn's Show at Hotel Cafe on 3/25

Jackie's opening song which declares "anything's possible" seems alarmingly appropriate for an artist who manages to dance, sing, tell jokes, rap and enchant in the same breath.

With each determined flick of her hair or kick of her staple high-top adidas sneakers, you see that this is not only a performer, but a person that you wish to discover more of. Fortunately for the admirer, Jackie seems to have limitless potential and energy for the sharing. With bold lyrics which touch both the belly (through laughter) and the heart (through honesty), Jackie dares you to love her, and as a song late in the set challenges: "double dare[s] you to forget." As is custom for the beautiful singer who exhibits much strength and confidence, the most memorable set moments are the ones in which Jackie make the most compelling demands; to her audience for the purpose of song participation, and to the Better Business Bureau for the purpose of shutting down a hazardous man.

Overall though, there is no reason to fear for the male subjects of these songs; as Jackie reminds us, "Beguiling" is "a kind-hearted album," as expressive and warm as its creator. It presents 11 charming songs driven by sharp vocals, electric/acoustic guitar and rocked-out-percussion, and 1 song, "Me" which is offered up from a piano with "a skirt that is even shorter when sitting." Let yourself into Jackie's exciting world of colorful images and people, then linger for a bit, sing along, laugh and above all, be captivated.

Review by Bre Goldsmith
Check out Jackie at www.myspace.com/jackietohn or at www.jackietohn.com

No comments: