Swinging Shanghai.(The Good Life; NIGHTLIFE)(nightclubs in Shanghai)

Byline: Megan Shank

On a recent night out in Shanghai, I found myself sandwiched between a busty, two-meter-tall, stiletto-heeled, Victorian-garbed transvestite and a dandy with a top hat singing Sinatra tunes atop a wooden bar. The crowd downed mojitos served in ceramic teapots. Showgirls' feathers flew.

A global economic downturn hasn't yet dampened the spirits of Shanghai's anachronistic jazz scene. In recent months the city's established venues have renovated, expanded or relocated to better digs, while a slew of opulent new clubs and regular performances provide fresh showcases for local and international talent.

One of the most simmering voices in town belongs to Heidi Krenn, an Austrian who studied with Sheila Jordan and Theo Bleckmann in New York on a Fulbright. At Cabaret, a lush Bund bar that opened in December, Krenn interprets the American songbook with alternating vulnerability and defiance; her sincerity and depth of expression radiate. The decor-- plush purple curtains, funky light fixtures and buttery leather furniture--matches Krenn's sometimes sensual, sometimes playful mood.

At neighboring Lounge 18 (bund18.com), a lofty space filled with caged candles and Gothic chandeliers, the inimitable vocalist Coco Zhao presents his latest concept: the 4 Play set. Each week his trio-- the cheekily named Menage a Trois--plays with a new guest. Zhao says the gig provides a sneak peek of songs he'll record for album release this summer. Patrons nibble foie gras dumplings and sip ylang-ylang martinis and passion-fruit iced tea.

Not just nightclubs are in on the action. Twocities gallery ...