Diana Krall delivered a mesmerizing live performance at Severance Music Center on Thursday, leaving the sold-out audience in awe. The jazz singer and pianist brought her signature smoky style to University Circle with a 100-minute set filled with sultry vocals, smooth piano, and emotional depth.
Krall, 60, was joined by upright bassist Sebastian Steinberg and drummer Brian Blade. Together, they created a magical atmosphere that blended improvisation, cool jazz, and dramatic intensity. Steinberg’s deep, resonant playing complemented Blade’s vibrant energy, creating a musical dialogue that kept the audience captivated from start to finish.
The performance conjured images of warm summer nights and classic cinematic moments. The stage was set with a bourbon on the piano cabinet, swirling cigarette smoke, and gentle mid-century fans, enhancing the evening’s romantic tension.
Krall’s set included timeless jazz standards and personal favorites. Her touch on the Steinway piano was delicate yet commanding. She and her bandmates exchanged musical cues effortlessly, turning each song into a unique experience. Blade’s drumming added playful bursts of rhythm, while Steinberg anchored the music with steady precision.
Midway through the show, Krall performed solo, drawing the audience in with her intimate, emotive style. Her singing goes beyond notes—she communicates feelings, inviting listeners into a shared musical journey. She joked about the scattered sheet music and a jam-session vibe, adding warmth and humor to the evening.
The setlist showcased classics like Cole Porter’s “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” Burt Bacharach’s “The Look of Love,” and George Gershwin’s “They Can’t Take That Away from Me.” Krall also surprised fans with pop and folk covers. Her meditative rendition of Buffalo Springfield’s “Mr. Soul” and Joni Mitchell’s “A Case of You” offered fresh, emotional interpretations.
She also performed Bob Dylan’s “Simple Twist of Fate” with sepia-toned phrasing and included Cleveland in the cities listed during “Route 66,” creating a local connection. The evening ended with a breathtaking encore of Brian Wilson’s “In My Room,” earning audible gasps from the audience.
One of the most touching moments of the night came when Krall reflected on legendary producer Tommy LiPuma. Known for nurturing artists like Miles Davis, George Benson, Barbara Streisand, and Krall herself, LiPuma left an enduring mark on her career. Krall shared her heartfelt memories, saying, “I miss him every day… being in Cleveland brings all those feelings back.”
The concert was more than a showcase of technical skill; it was an immersive experience. Krall’s ability to blend sensuality, humor, and musical mastery highlighted why she remains a leading figure in contemporary jazz. Each song felt carefully crafted yet spontaneously alive, offering the audience both nostalgia and fresh interpretations.
Fans left Severance Music Center enchanted by the combination of Krall’s sultry vocals, expressive piano, and the effortless interplay between her and her band. It was a performance that celebrated the timeless appeal of jazz while showcasing the enduring artistry of one of Canada’s most celebrated musicians.
