If we had to rank the great Motown vocalists, it's pretty likely that Martha Reeves would edge Diana Ross out for the top spot. Nothing against Ms. Ross, because no one is ever going to argue the greatness of "You Can't Hurry Love" or "Back in My Arms Again," but we'd take Martha's rawness and enthusiasm over Diana's smooth elegance and glamour every time -- at least on the dance floor. (And, that said, it's hard to find a Supremes song that will get a dance floor jumping like "[Love Is Like a] Heat Wave," "Nowhere to Run" or "Dancing in the Street.") The story of Martha and the Vandellas is one that includes some of the most amazing pop songs of the decade, in-fighting, and some tragedy, including Reeves' institutionalization after a bad acid trip. After Reeves and the Vandellas parted ways in 1972, she recorded as a solo artist for Motown, was elected to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 and, in 2005, was elected to the Detroit City Council, where she still serves. Tonight, this living legend is performing at the Carlyle Club from 8 until 10 or so, according to the club's management, which seems like time for her to cover all the hits, and maybe some less-known tracks ("Wild One" and "In My Lonely Room," please?). Tickets are $50 per person for either seats at dinner tables or standing room in the bar area. The purchase of a meal is required for a table, while bar admission comes with a two-drink minimum. Dress code is business casual.
-- Fritz Hahn (Sept. 2008)
