Norm Drubner: It Could Happen to You
Norm Drubner
It Could Happen to You
February 2, 2015
Reviewed by John Hoglund for Cabaret Scenes
Singer Norm Drubner has a promising theme for this new CD: songs of new love and lost love. A classy vintage collection, it’s all about love’s musings and wanderlust—where roads eventually lead back home. From the lively opener, “Just Friends,” to the poignant “I See Your Face Before Me,” Drubner’s musical journey is circuitous with romantically-themed forays all over the map. In an airy baritone, he has an agreeable musical persona with a penchant for lightly sliding through songs. A student of the big band, snap-your-fingers era, there are obvious influences from crooners of another time like Crosby and Sinatra. But, at times, he falls just a bit short of the imagination and signature stamps that such oldies counted on making them so memorable. Drubner has a gentle, serviceable baritone that often navigates lyrics without much emphasis on the supple depth the revered songwriters intended. That aside, there are some warm highlights that are well arranged, making for an interesting listen. “Here’s That Rainy Day” and “I See Your Face Before Me” score particularly well and show what he is capable of when he chooses. A swinging “I’ll Take Romance” also becomes a solid cut, joining his vocals with the band as one. “I’m Through with Love” and “My Heart Stood Still” are high spots thanks to some perfect guitar licks (Chris Morrison) underpinning the singer.
For more excitement, Drubner offers a delightfully upbeat “I Have Dreamed” that hits the spot and is the album’s best cut. Swinging tunes are his strength. As a result, more of this is called for on this nostalgic love journey with some special song selections clearly sung by someone in love with the genre.
The production values of the disk are, at times, a bit uneven and questionable in the mixing department. The CD frequently burns an inordinate overuse of reverb, causing some balance problems. Too, at times, the piano is louder than necessary. Still, there are some haunting musical interludes as on “You Go to My Head,” punctuated by Tony Kadleck’s yearning trumpet, making for a particularly special cut. His backup turns on trumpet are outstanding. The other musicians are all skilled, providing reliable support and include: Nick Bariluk (keyboard), Bob Leonard (drums) and Harry Lugo (bass). Morrison’s always outstanding guitar deserves special mention.
Category: Music, Music Reviews, New York City
