Paul Marinaro; Not Quite Yet

Now and then I can simply glance at the tune list of an unfamiliar artist and get a pretty accurate idea as to the jazz chops I’m about to hear. Such was the case with the excellent singer Paul Marinaro. With accompaniment from groups ranging from a small ensemble to a strikingly well arranged big band, Marinaro tears it up with a jazz sensitivity on no less than fourteen well chosen songs. Those impressive choices range from “Born To Be Blue” to “Make Me Rainbows”; from “Remind Me” to “On A Wonderful Day Like Today”; and from “Taking A Chance On Love” to ”The Island”; and many more. I was particularly impressed with the bluesy tune, a Carroll Coates-Hub Atwood obscurity called “No One Ever Tells You”. That sometimes elusive jazz essence is right out front on every Marinaro effort, and his outstanding accompaniment and arrangements further enhance his vocal power and finesse. Paul Marinaro is a bright light who needs to be heard from again and again.

Self produced; 2022; appx. 72 min.