Adam Shenk (Again) Commands Excellence At NYC's Duplex

Imagine a stage 12 feet across, perhaps 8 feet deep, packed with five musicians, three dancers, a rapper—and, uh, a tap dancer. Fortunately, there was still room for preeminent presence, singer/songwriter and preeminent entertainer Adam Shenk, performing Friday night to a packed house at New York's Duplex in the West Village.

I last saw Adam perform at The Bitter End in May, and he has evolved from spectacular to stupendous (get it: "t" comes after "p"), commanding the audience with loose, casual patter, alongside a tight playlist that displays his acumen at the piano, as a blue-eyed soul vocalist (with moves), and convincing showman at the mic.

In addition to songs from his 2010 disc "Suitcases"—produced at 2C Studios in Brooklyn by Ayhan Sahin, with liner notes (and his web bio) written by meese—Shenk premiered several new compositions, hopefully destined for a follow-up project. In all, he appeared at total ease delivering an electrifying evening with an enthused fan base that is in for the long term with this uber-talented showman. Neil Patrick Harris, watch your back, baby.
Above: With Adam and Leonard after the show. Below: Left, Adam and his cutie background singer Ashton; right, rapper Heightz with his hot lady Layla.