The delectably quirky New York singer/pianist/ukulele player has released her first album of original material in 13 years, this summer’s “Hey Guys, Watch This.” Like one of McKay’s live cabaret shows, this is full of delightful surprises, welcomed curveballs and a WTF moment. Whether she’s mining her vintage pop instincts or flair for noirish vocal jazz, she treats and tickles. McKay ends the album with the bizarre “Make a Wish,” a rambling, sing-songy social commentary about racism, sexism, abuse, sex trade, other societal ills and serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer.
Nellie McKay
STAR TRIBUNE BIG GIGS