Rick Bogart Sings Mr. Paganini
Arabesque, 2024
9/10
Listen to Rick Bogart Sings Mr. Paganini
The esteemed vocalist and clarinetist Rick Bogart fleshes out tracks that take nods to Ella Fitzgerald, Ethel Ennis and Barbara Cook, plus standards and originals, and he’s got an excellent cast along for the ride.
The frisky guitar from Marc Daine starts the listen, as Bogart’s playful pipes guide “Since I’ve Been To You”, and “The Magic Of Manhattan” follows with Jon B. Roche’s warm bass complementing the smooth vocals.
Deeper into the listen, “Because Of You” benefits much from Don Edmonds’ warm piano for the heartfelt delivery, while “Come Fly Me” emits bouncy bass and light melodies for the album’s best.
Landing near the end, Bogart’s radiant clarinet adds a distinct mood to “There Will Never Be Another You”, and “American Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra” exits with the Manhattan String Orchestra and Bogart’s wind interacting via a distinct dreaminess for the 15+ minutes that pays close attention to mood.
Bogart’s singing is internationally revered, and the classical moments and orchestral nods won’t go unappreciated, as the 16 tracks unfold with timeless jazz qualities that you can’t help but admire.
Travels well with: Hollaway- Jazz-ish; Robin Simone Hollywood Orchestra- Robin Simone Hollywood Orchestra