It's a celebration of music that begins before Clint Holmes even steps onstage. A tribute to legendary performers who have inspired him creates the show's path, which moves quickly from one genre of music to the next.
Holmes endears himself to the audience with a few humble remarks about his only hit, recorded more than 30 years ago. But "Playground in my Mind" stirs some fond memories.
When his jacket comes off, Holmes quickens the pace. At home with the rhythm of the Caribbean and the passion of Spain, Holmes revels in diversity. Each member of the hard-working band has a chance to shine, as does Holmes' sister, Gayle. Longtime friend and musical director Bill Fayne lends his talented voice to the eclectic mix.
The son of a white British opera singer and a black American jazz singer, Holmes displays the discipline and the fun, the formality and the spontaneity inherent in live music. From scat to a medley of opera, the versatility of Holmes and his band dazzles.
Holmes, who had colon cancer surgery in December 2004, closes the show by talking about the colonoscopy that may have saved his life. A new composition, "If Not Now When," inspires audiences to organize their passions and pursue them with vigor before it's too late. And that's when a celebration of music becomes a celebration of life itself.