Frank Sinatra’s Songs for Swingin’ Lovers! – Cadagon Hall

A one night only extravaganza of songs from the Frank Sinatra’S iconic album; ‘Songs for Swingin Lovers!’ released in 1956, performed by Stephen Triffitt and supported by the amazing Manhattan Swing Orchestra, a full big band with strings. Stephen performed classic favourites such as ‘You Make Me Feel So Young’, ‘Old Devil Moon’ and ‘Come Fly with Me’ and with extra songs such as ‘Witchcraft’ and ending in a rapturous rendition of ‘My Way’ and ‘New York New York’.

Stephen included facts and narrative surrounding Franks’ songs, his collaborations with Capital records until he left in 1960 and his lyricist Nelson Riddle. It is an evening of celebration of the magnitude of the Frank Sinatra songbook, Stephen Triffitt undoubtedly is a master of his craft he is very comfortable with the songs and at times was effortless with the long notes to accentuate the meaning of the song to entertain the audience. The Manhattan Swing Orchestra demonstrated a musical prowess and elevated the music to the next level with solo performances and seamless instrumental interludes.

The concert solely featured the voice of Stephen Triffitt and at times during the performance he captured the soul of the man himself ‘Frank Sinatra’. This is a fitting tribute to the music from the album ‘Songs for Swinging Lovers’, however the performance would have benefitted from more detail about Frank Sinatra’s life story and told in a way that was sensitive to an audience who appeared to hold dear these iconic songs. It is common knowledge that Frank did not enjoy performing My Way or New York New York and Stephen’s professional performance of the songs did not detract from this fact.  

Triffitt has an impressive resume, performing as Frank in Las Vegas, and held the role of ‘Ol Blue Eyes’ in the original West End production of the The Rat Pack. He did not disappoint with his vocals, and at times the orchestral music boomed out louder to support the magnitude of the song, exhilarating none the less. Moments throughout the performance Stephen referred to the song list, and joked about the order and timings of songs which at times interrupted and influenced the flow of the evening.

This is a must for all lovers of Frank Sinatra and the iconic seminal 1956 album of world class renowned songs. Cadagon Hall is a historic venue and seemed appropriate for this concert with its relaxed comfortable atmosphere to enjoy the music in. No doubt that Stephen knows how to perform as ‘Frank Sinatra’ whilst also known for his voice in the title track of the TV series ‘Not Going Out’ his familiarity of voice some would feel they are listening to Frank Sinatra…! Except with some songs possibly lacking the charisma of the man himself, Stephen is an exceptional singer and truly embodies the sentiment and lyrics of the songs many people in the audience would have firmly etched in their head and hearts.  

Reviewer: Michelle Knight

Reviewed: 11^th June 2023

North West End UK Rating: