Rusty Ferracane: Press

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Sure, the full-length version of the album-titling "That's Life" is kind of fun as Rusty Ferracane sings with gusto and with a band, back-up vocals and an approach that salutes the old Frank Sinatra hit record. But it's the tender, slower, one-chorus a capella version opening the CD that takes the beauty prize. "Less is more" has rarely been better illustrated. Sincerity is this man's strong suit. A long history of theater roles in Arizona where he lives and teaches includes Man of La Mancha and he includes a conservative swipe at its iconic statement, "The Impossible Dream (The Quest)." However, his nuance-challenged phrasing and uninspired accompaniment somehow don't have the emotional investment that some of the other selections demonstrate. Like everything here, it is earnest and unpretentious.
Much more successful is the imaginative and more energetic ownership of the Gershwins' "I Got Rhythm" that is filled with variety. It surprises with opportunities to be pretty and shows some humor, too. Some tracks feature judicious use of cello, flute and other instruments. A toast to the saxophone playing by Hughie Lovelady, who worked with Frank Sinatra, that greatly enhances the saloon swoon of "One for My Baby (And One More for the Road)."
Best of all, and most worthy of cherishing, are three songs from three different musicals composed by Craig Bohmler, who is also on piano and did the arrangements. Rusty was in the New York premiere of Enter the Guardsman and presents a thoroughly rewarding and high-class rendition of the score's delightful "Art Imitating Life." He is just perfect interpreting Marion Adler's refined lyric. The same songwriting team's "Once Upon a Time" from an unproduced musical is sensational - a real find that builds and builds as it tells its story. As the music and drama rise, Rusty rises to the occasion and nails the key moments. "Write Her" (Craig Bohmler/ Mary Bracken Phillips from The Haunting of Winchester) is dramatic and full of pleading, but never becomes plodding.
A gentle soul comes through on this CD, and plenty of integrity, too. Oh, and there are some lovely, unforced high notes - the head tones have heart. It's a pleasure to spend time with Rusty Ferracane.


- Rob Lester