Ezra Axelrod is one of a kind, that is for sure. He is currently performing ‘Songs from the American Motel,’ a selection of twelve songs from his debut album, in a month long run at the Leicester Square Theatre Lounge. It is a cosy and informal room ideal for engaging boutique productions… Ezra seemed to love the interactive layout and bounced gleefully off the audience’s conversation and remarks.

The rowdy band came tumbling onto the crowded stage, obviously excited about the show ahead. Ezra soon appeared, a skinny tanned body dressed in tiny tight boxers and wrapped in a white towel, a cheeky smile on his face. Luckily we were seated in a corner, a few feet away from the scrutinised front row, I did not envy their participation in the show, Ezra has no qualms about speaking his mind even when it involved offending people he has never met before!

The songs, though usually camp, fun and perhaps mocking, indicate genuine feeling and are touchingly autobiographical. We learn about his family, friends, teachers and lovers, the trials and tribulations of a young gay Jewish boy discovering his persona in the stifling surroundings of La Grande, Oregon, USA. I was most impressed by the ultra secure harmonies, sung by the three boys, Ezra and soulful backing singers: Tim Oxbrown and Dwayne Washington. The satisfying melodic crunches are evident in most of the songs, sometimes impressively a cappella but usually accompanied by the energetic band: Fernando Medina (drums), Tom Parsons (bass and vocals), Patrick Rowe (guitar), and Willemijn Steenbakkers (violin).

The show is like a mini musical, and there is a narrative progression through the track list. ‘Prayer for a Dressing Room’ is full of frivolity and excitement while ‘Father’ is much more melancholy and reflective. I loved the louder fun songs, but also thoroughly enjoyed ‘Futbol y Mangos’ the Spanish song Ezra wrote while remembering his first love.

Songs from The American Motel continues until 3rd March, book here.

Ezra’s debut album is now available here.