Saloon would be a fine addition to your next quiet dinner
author: Richard Bourcier
Review: Ron Kaplan is a crusader without a cape. His mission is to perpetuate the tradition of American popular song and everything that goes with it.
This, his fifth album, is aptly titled Saloon. The California – born jazz singer and his Brazilian born accompanist Weber Iago bring back the flavor the famed Tony Bennett – Bill Evans album for Fantasy in 1975. Saloon creates a similar mood without echoing the Bennett/ Evans songs themselves. Kaplan and Iago create the illusion of an intimate but classy little jazz room. The singer has a relaxed and elegant jazz style that lends itself perfectly to the compositions of Gershwin, Jobim, Ellington and Bacharach.
The duo doesn't dig too deeply through the years with the oldest pieces being the Duke's "I'm Just A Lucky So And So" and Gershwin's "I Got Rhythm" and "'S Wonderful" done in medley style. Most songs fall comfortably into the memories of anyone born within the last four decades. This reviewer's favorites are "Willow Weep For Me" and Jobim's "Agua De Beber." The latter features some inventive efforts by both singer and pianist. The album closes with a memorable reading of "Who Can I Turn To" penned by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley.
Saloon would be a fine addition to your next quiet dinner with someone special. It's a charmer!
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Talent that is undeniable
author: Neo-Zine
This CD does exactly what it set out to do. It replaces the old saloon acts that usually featured one lonely crooner accompanied by an acoustic piano and a tip jar. It does this job so effectively, that I believe any smoky lounge or dark clinking glass romance joint could get away with just playing this instead of hiring an actual live act. Ron Kaplan may have just put hundreds of smooth characters out of business, but he did it with class, style, and talent that is undeniable. I recognize some pretty rock solid standards in here like "It Was A Very Good Year," and "I Got Rhythm." You'll recognize them when you hear them. Enjoy this fading genre while you still can.
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A most enjoyable CD accentuated by Kaplan's easygoing, personable style.
author: Singer & Musician Magazine
SALOON The Ron Kaplan * Weber Iago Album www.ronkaplan.com
His latest release commemorates the 30th anniversary of The Tony Bennett and Bill Evans Album. On Saloon, Kaplan collaborates with Brazilian pianist Weber Iago for a most enjoyable CD accentuated by Kaplan's easygoing, personable style. Well executed and highly enjoyable, but not your typical jazz CD.
-RL
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A class performance beautifiully presented and recorded
author: Brian J Moulton - Jazz Promoter
It is a delight that Ron's singing is reminiscent of the great vocalists of the past yet he stamps his own unique style on all the lovely songs on this CD.
This CD Saloon is a beautiful combination of classy singing,thoughtful piano backing and excellent recording engineering.
A must have CD
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