BWW CD Review: REFLECTIONS of Judy Norton

Actress/singer/director Judy Norton began her cabaret act at Sterling's Upstairs at Vitello's in January of 2010 and in my review, I called it "a stellar show with a true night club star. Norton, best known for her 9 years as daughter Mary Ellen and sister of John Boy on TV's The Waltons, is a versatile singer with a terrific range...and a warm and engaging performer. Gifted and experienced, she is not nervous or phrenetic, making excuses for herself or forgetting her words...no, none of that; Norton is a consummate artist whose selection of songs were guaranteed to entertain her appreciative theatrical audience, which they did in spades. No big ego here; Norton makes you feel right at home."

Judy has continued to perform her one-woman show and this year she recorded a live CD at Rockwell entitled Reflections. The CD has just been released, and it's a real delight for Judy Norton fans. Her lovely, clear, lilting voice is used to great advantage, showing off that infectious versatility mentioned up top. There are only 4 songs from the original show. The 10 new ones are mostly pop standards and Broadway showstoppers. Excellent musical director Ed Martel is still on board.

Norton's portrayal of Mary Ellen was always sincere and so is her singing style. There are no tricks or theatrics, but... she is not afraid to take risks. Highlights of the CD include: a beautiful "I'll Be Seeing You", a tender "Smile", a delicious "My Heart Belongs to Daddy", and then an ultimately dramatic "Holding Out for a Hero". There's the sweet, gentle "Someone to Watch Over Me" and a very, very amusing and right.on.target "Adelaide's Lament" from Guys and Dolls. I would never cast her in that flamboyant role but - and it's again all in the risk-taking - she carries it off sublimely. She ends with lots of positive attitude - "Stand By Your Man", and then with the moving and shaking "Stompin' at the Savoy". It's an eclectic mix showing Norton's range and fervor for the music she sings.

I would like to hear a couple of humorous stories from her TV days, but Norton chooses to let the music convey the emotions of the various stages of her life. And it does work quite well!

If Judy Norton returns with Reflections, go, go, go! With her smooth delivery and unique way around a lyric, she can really sell a song. Reflections is available digitally on itunes and other digital platforms. If you would like a signed hard copy, it may be ordered through Judy Norton's website:

http://www.judynorton.com/