Love Comes First
Cafe Pacific, 2026
9/10
The always impressive Mark Winkler is joined by 22 of Southern California’s best jazz musicians for these 11 timeless and romantic songs.
The finger snapping fun and playful bass of “Snappin’ On The 2 And 4” opens with Winkler’s smooth voice guiding the warmth, and the title track follows with frisky drums amid the expressive singing that tugs on the heartstrings.
In the middle, “Embraceable You” offers an intimate and cozy setting that pairs Winkler’s emotive pipes with graceful keys, while “Everything But You” takes help from Tom Culver’s voice for the upbeat and harmonic jazz appeal that employs sax.
Close to the end, “Just In Time” carries an infectious energy via the lively rhythm section and Winkler’s soaring vocals, and “Do You Ever Wonder?” exits with Grant Geissman’s radiant guitar that complements the flawless singing and stirring strings.
Winkler tosses in 6 originals here, and his wit and authentic presence is again appreciated across relatable storytelling and melodic jazz sensibilities.
Travels well with: Mark Winkler- Hold On; Mark Winkler- The Rules Don’t Apply