Coco Love for dessert

Only one other voice can move me as much as that of my all-time favourite singer, the late great Ella Fitzgerald.

That voice belongs to Coco Love Alcorn.

Daughter of jazz musician John Alcorn, it's no wonder she has chosen a musical path in life.

But through her engaging style, this is no regular path.

Coco Love has gracefully infused it with jazz, folk, pop, soul and R&B, artfully finished with a delightful dollop of whimsy.

The result is a sound as irresistible and intriguing as her name.

But to fully experience Coco Love, a live performance is necessary.

The stage is where she lets the stunning beast loose as all the influences she encompasses - Cassandra Wilson, k.d. Lang, Aretha Franklin - sensually traverse from the tips of her toes to their final delicate escape through her beautiful lips.

As she sways and snaps to the music, Coco Love engages each and every audience member through focused eye contact and a wide smile.

Making everyone feel as though she is singing only to them, you can't help but be drawn as deep as she is into each note.

And just when things are about to get too intense or serious, she'll crack a joke and start the seduction all over again.

Loplops Gallery-Lounge's Sunday night Dinner Show was the ideal showcase for her brilliance.

After a fine meal of Asian-inspired dishes skillfully prepared by the staff of Five, a little Coco Love was the perfect dessert.

Fellow songstress Cat Janke opened the show as she revealed her sweet, tender and often sad voice, drawing a tear or two from a few audience members.

Cat's subject matter switched mid-way from sad to angry, laughing as she said, "I don't know why. I'm normally a very happy person."

This performance was one of a Dinner Show series hosted by Loplops Gallery-Lounge.

The next will take place Sunday, March 25 and features the music of The Great Lake Swimmers.

Please call 945-0574 for menu and ticket information.