Review: Billy Vera with Lon Price at Vitello’s
Earlier this week I did a little tongue-wagging about Billy Vera’s upcoming performance at Vitello’s Italian Restaurant in Studio City, featuring Lon Price on saxophone. That show was last night in the upstairs Jazz & Supper Club.
Billy took his seat at the piano at 8pm. Naturally, I arrived at 8:15. (I figured they’d wait for me, but forgot to tell them I would be in attendance. Not Billy’s fault)
But last night belonged to Billy’s crooning voice as he belted out one hit after another to a crowd of about 80 or so delighted fans.
The show was already in progress when I arrived. The hostess was able to find me a seat at a table with several women who were much older than me. Before sitting down I shot everyone a wink and a smile officially announcing my arrival. These ladies were not impressed. They came to see Billy. However, by the end of the night we were friends. Numbers were exchanged, but promises were not made.
We tapped our toes to such hits as Storybook Children, Guess Who, and the obvious classic, At this Moment, which was featured on this blog earlier this week. Click here to listen.
At one point during the show Billy asked the audience for requests. Before you could blink an eye, calls for, At this Moment, filled the room. Billy didn’t disappoint. He knows his bread and butter. As he performed his hit song, Ilooked around the room for the audience’s reactions. One gentleman in particular was mouthing the words as he shoveled ravioli piccata into his mouth. Let’s face it people, At This Moment, has a special meaning to everyone. For me it celebrates the love of Alex and Ellen from Family Ties - whose cast will be reuniting on April 17th in New York at the TV Land Awards. Billy is scheduled to perform at this event.
Lon Price’s saxophone added an emotional touch to Billy’s songs. I couldn’t help but think of Rob Lowe’s character in the film, St. Elmo’s Fire, as I listened to Lon pour his soul into each song. I found myself chuckling at times at Lon’s facial expressions when he was NOT playing. He looked asleep on stage, or maybe just caught up in the moment of a good tune. Either way the combination of sax, piano and Billy’s voice was an unbeatable three of a kind.
The Jazz & Supper Club at Vitello’s holds about 100 people and provides a close and intimate setting. This is a great place for a date, or a night out with a group of friends. The cover was $15 plus a $13 minimum from the menu. The menu is Italian, and not one entree is listed over $25.
Vitello’s Italian Restaurant is located at 4349 Tujunga Avenue in Studio City, CA 91604, and can be reached at 818.769.0905. Reservations aren’t always necessary, but not a bad idea either.
