Album Notes

Live In New York City At The Iridium Jazz Club

Tony Messina loves the classic American songbook and is a crooner for the 21st century. But although he has performed a tribute to Dean Martin called “The Dino Show” and been praised by Frank Sinatra, he does not merely copy the past. Messina has his own sound, his musical personality is not dominated by any of his predecessors, and he even writes new material that fits in well with his shows.

During this live show from New York's Iridium which is his fifth CD, Tony Messina is sympathetically accompanied by pianist Barry Levitt, bassist Chip Jackson and drummer Victor Jones. He comes out swinging on “Day In, Day Out,” puts warmth into “My Funny Valentine,” caresses the melody of “Blue Moon,” and introduces three fine originals: “Jazz'd,” the light-hearted “Mile High Club” and “Lifetimes.”

Particularly impressive is how Messina is able to come up with fresh statements on such familiar numbers as “On Broadway” (which he swings and scats on with enthusiasm), “Georgia On My Mind,” “How High The Moon” (a tribute to Ella but without the singer feeling he has to emulate her phrases) and “On Green Dolphin Street.” The many concise solos of Barry Levitt and Chip Jackson are an asset throughout and the tight trio is expert at matching Tony Messina's phrasing.

Everything about this set works quite well, making Live In New York City Tony Messina's definitive recording so far. It is easily recommended to fans of crooners, vintage American songs, and swinging singing in general.

Scott Yanow, author of ten books including The Jazz Singers, Trumpet Kings, Swing, Jazz On Record 1917-76
and Jazz On Film

Tony was born and raised in South Philadelphia. He has sung around the world in conert at jazz festivals, clubs and theaters. Live in NYC is Tony's fifth album. He's been writing songs, singing and acting since he was a kid. He has lived in LA and New York. He has acted on major television soaps such as "General Hospital" & "Young and the Restless." He has appeared in two Mel Brooks fims, "History of the World" and "Life Stinks" and numerous other films. He has acted and sung in an off-Broadway production called "DINO", the songs and life of Dean Martin. Tony is full of fun and zest. He has worked with and sung for numerous other stars like Harrison Ford, Robert DiNiro, Sarah Jessica Parker, James Gandolfini and Julianna Moore.