The original line-up of the California Crooners Club returned for opening weekend of Fringe, five years after their first performance together in Adelaide.

Right from the opener, crooner classic ‘Lady is a Tramp’, it was clear the trio – comprising of Adelaide favourite Hugh Sheridan, as well as Gabe Roland and Emile Welman fresh off the plane from LA – were there to entertain, and make the audience swoon.

Reminiscent of the quintessential jazz club experience, and accompanied by a sensational six piece band, the Crooners then launched into series of popular and contemporary tunes, putting their own classic spin on each one. Their rendition of Billie Eilish’s ‘Bad Guy’ was very smooth, and the emotion-charged Sia hit ‘Chandelier’ revealed the exceptional vocal ability of all three performers. Roland’s fresh R&B flavour – present in a number of the tracks – affirmed the appeal of the outfit to a broad audience.

The two original songs ‘Keeper’ and ‘I Need You’ were hits with the audience, and highlighted the commerciality of the trio – the latter, penned with Kate Miller-Heidke, would be perfect for bopping along to in your car on a chilled Sunday drive.

The California Crooners Club finished with a bang! A collection of old favourites in the ‘Jungle Boogie’ had the audience on the dance floor and the final number ‘I Like It Like That’ made it feel like a party that you didn’t want to end.

Although there were some minor opening night teething issues with lighting and sound, it couldn’t detract from the pure entertainment factor of the California Crooners Club. There really was something for everyone in their 60-minute set, so if you’re looking for a fabulous way to ring in this Fringe opening weekend, a stop by the Club is a must!

4 and a half stars

California Crooners Club is playing at Masonic – Great Hall at Gluttony until February 16th. Tickets can be purchased here at https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/california-crooners-club-af2020

Rachel Gould