By ERIC STEVENS

Norfolk

Everyone in the music business knows that underrated performers abound, but Cynthia Scott surprised even this battered veteran. I'd read, correctly, that she could sing terrifically, but so can many others; her showmanship is what's virtually unequaled, and THAT'S a killer combination. Anyone who sings in public should study her moves, patter, and attitude. Sadly for aspiring singers, her looks can't be "copied."

For someone who was a Raelet in the 1970s, she still looks like an adorable kid teacher's pet not unlike Nancy Wilson a few decades back (but for my money she sings much better). It's been written that she sings somewhat like Ella and Sarah, but she's so much her own voice that I found that, and other comparisons invalid, except for very brief patches of my favorite, the late Etta Jones (no, NOT Etta JAMES; Etta JONES).

Miss Scott opened with YOU CAN NEVER LOSE A THING IF IT BELONGS TO YOU, running it into WHERE OR WHEN. A breakneck COME BACK TO ME was followed by a Johnny Mercer medley. Then the preacher's kid revealed that she's the 10th of twelve children, with a mother too old to recognize her due to Alzheimer's; her original song, DID I KNOW YOU? was so touching it could tear your heart out. Before taking a break, she wisely restored the party mood with a finger-popping blues.

The closing set was disappointingly short, but who can complain about I ONLY HAVE EYES FOR YOU, BEWITCHED, and an audience-participation WILD WOMEN NEVER HAVE THE BLUES.

A photographer could fill a coffee-table book with all different poses of her in action, especially at her dramatic ending to the set opener.

She was backed by the marvelous John di Martino Trio, featuring the personable leader at the keys. He's as original as Cynthia, offering variety, feeling, mastery, and originality in addition to displaying the most hand-postures I've ever seen. His first teacher would probably smite his hands with a ruler if possible.

Scott seemed mesmerized by the work of drummer Victor Jones and bassist Santi Debriano, who bowed and plucked with aplomb.

The trio opened with unannounced YESTERDAYS, IN MY SOLITUDE, and WHAT IS THIS THING CALLED LOVE?

For their bios and many CDs, I recommend that you Google them. While doing so, type in www.jazzongranby.com to note the fine lineup coming our way, or call 623-414

Jazz in Norfolk is alive and well!

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Pianist-singer-songwriter Eric Stevens has been entertaining locally since the 1970s. Reach him at 481-7792.