By Magda Katz***Michael Longoria celebrated the release of his new album Catch a Wave with a lively and nostalgic cabaret evening at the Laurie Beechman Theatre. The evening was dedicated to the timeless hits of the Beach Boys, who once dominated the record charts with their signature sound—songs that captured the carefree spirit of sun-soaked beaches, surfing, and teenage life in 1960s Southern California. The evening was further elevated by a terrific band of musical director, pianist-arranger Yaz Fukuoka, Chris Smucker (saxophone and flute), David Cinquegrana (guitar), Brian Holtz (bass) and Josh Roberts (drums).
Longoria’s show didn’t just revisit the music—it transported the audience to an era before cell phones, TikTok, and social media, when teens connected face-to-face and summer days were spent chasing the perfect tan with little thought of sunblock. It was a simpler, more innocent time, and the music reflected that joy.
The Beach Boys were known for their intricate, tight harmonies and Longoria impressively recreated that sound, backed by James Oblak and Sean McGee, creating a rich and authentic the vocal blend, doing justice to the group’s signature style. Longoria’s background—having performed in Jersey Boys and touring with The Midtown Men—was evident throughout the evening. His strong vocals and effortless falsetto made even the most challenging harmonies seem easy. Fukuoka’s arrangements were polished and vibrant, capturing both the nostalgia and the enduring appeal of these classic songs. And adding visual flair to the performance, Kayla Cruz brought the spirit of the ’60s to life with energetic dance moves that perfectly complemented the music.
One of the evening’s most charming touches came between songs, when Longoria invited audience members to share personal memories inspired by The Beach Boys’ music. The stories were heartfelt and often humorous, creating a warm sense of community. Several participants were even rewarded with a copy of his newly released album.
By the end of the night, the room was filled with singing, dancing and pure joy—a testament to the enduring power of this music. Perhaps most surprising was the number of younger audience members, many not even born during the Beach Boys’ heyday, who were clearly discovering—and falling in love with—these songs for the first time. More than a record release, the show was a celebration, with Longoria not only honoring the legacy of the Beach Boys, but also reminding us that great music—rooted in harmony, heart, and shared experience—never goes out of style.
