Review by Steve Desroches
The Love Lounge at the Gifford House began to fill immediately after Tori McClain took to the microphone. There already was a crowd assembled claiming the best seats, as McClain’s reputation as a singer with a velvet voice and a charismatic stage presence has spread by word of mouth around Provincetown over the past several years. Relatively new to the jam-packed performance scene in town, McClain has quickly become a crowd favorite. And on a beautiful Friday summer night she did not disappoint singing from a vast songbook with piano man Chris Grasso providing lively musical accompaniment and acting as an apt musical director. Fridays at the Love Lounge with McClain and Grasso are an absolute delight.
Setting a chill tone and misting the room with kindness and grace, McClain creates an intimate atmosphere of camaraderie and inclusion. There are times to sing along, moments to shout out requests (and she can accommodate most everyone), and a time to sit back and just listen to her powerhouse voice that adapts to a variety of genres of music, be it a snappy rendition of “9 to 5”, a surprising arrangement of ABBA’s “Mama Mia”, and a gorgeous cover of “She Used to Be Mine” from the Broadway musical Waitress. She also ably delves into the ferocious debate to whether one should clap twice or three times to Cher’s “Dark Lady.” Upon inquiry it was clear the room was split down the middle, which she plays for sweet comedic effect with this apparently uniquely gay cultural question as the straight people in attendance appeared confused over the playful conflict.
The patter with the audience is free and natural, with snippets of biography. McClain is originally from Tennessee. She sang in show choir in high school. She and her wife have children. And she’s only been performing in Provincetown for four years, and can’t quite believe she’s doing so. In addition to the Gifford House she and Grasso also play the Pilgrim House, Provincetown Inn, and Luke’s Lobster at MacMillan Pier, with people following them from gig to gig. On this night in question, it feels as if the Love Lounge was built for McClain and Grasso, testament to the chameleon nature of their talent to fit any room. With its warm colors and glow accented with a campy chandelier the Love Lounge provides a cozy oasis in the party palace atmosphere of the Gifford House. Come for a few minutes respite or stay for the entire three-hour set, as many do as the connection McClain forms with the audience works wonders in melting away the stress and anxiety of the outside world. McClain and Grasso are two great talents and are a most welcomed addition to the live music offerings in Provincetown.
Tori McClain and Chris Grasso play the Love Lounge at the Gifford House, 9 Carver St. Fridays from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. through September 5. There is no cover. For more information visit gifford.house or call 508.487.0688.
