Paris to Cuba

A few weeks ago I got an email with a simple request; would I be willing to review a new CD?

Hmm...sounded interesting.
I kept reading.

"Blending hints of Pink Martini and Buena Vista Social Club, the percussion section laps as a wave on an empty beach. It is easy for the listener to get lost in the guitar solos, mysterious accordion and nostalgic, sweeping strings. This is not your typical jazz or world record."



They had me at Pink Martini.


Then it got better.

"The album is the embodiment of summer; music that immediately calls to mind a sunset on the Seine.
Mario Grigorov, the project’s creator, found his inspiration for the record through the Parisian mood and architecture he admires so much during his time spent in Paris, as well as the traditional and classical French music he has always loved.
Nearly all tracks on the album are instrumental, with the exception of three songs that feature stunning vocals by Melissa Newman that are reminiscent of Madeleine Peyroux."

OK. Pink Martini, Buena Vista Social Club and Madeleine Peyroux? I could hardly contain my excitement! With that combination I knew I would be smitten.


Paris to Cuba, by Mario Grigorov, is deliciously smooth and sultry.
Sunset on the Seine? Most definitely. I also picture a laid back beach bar with the rhythm of the waves breaking in the background. Or sitting in a stylish, urban cocktail lounge with friends, toasting each other with caipirinhas or mojitos.

The majority of the songs are instrumental, with three of the ten tracks featuring the silky, soothing voice of Melissa Newman, described as "a cross between Billie Holiday and Patsy Cline".

Paris to Cuba is a brilliant, soulful collection of music. I love it. And I think you will too.

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