Album Review
Paul Nourigat – ‘Smiles That Pass By’ [Album Review]
At once traditional yet contemporary enough to keep hold of listeners’ ears, Paul Nourigat’s ‘Smiles That Pass By’ exudes genuine charm.
Until five years ago, Americana artist Paul Nourigat had been a “musical bystander,” who watches and listens to others who make music. Then he picked up a guitar and learned to play it, followed by learning to sing, write songs, collaborate with other artists, and play the ukulele.
Based in Portland, Oregon, Nourigat just released his latest album, Smiles That Pass By, a collection of roots-flavored songs produced by Adam Selzer.
“I’m at a point in life where I’m compelled to share what’s on my mind,” says Nourigat, who recently turned 65. “Having experienced many highs and lows, I’ve come out of the extremes stronger for the experiences, which is the essence of the lyrics for each song on ‘Smiles That Pass By.’”
At the heart of Nourigat’s songs is his life. Growing up, his family moved around internationally and nationally due to his father’s military career, and he lived in 12 homes by the time he graduated high school. This transient existence translated into a sense of independence and mindfulness of the world around him.
High points on the 10-track album include “Assumed It Would Happen,” a song vaguely reminiscent of Jimmy Buffet, with its tints of tropically laced country and folk flow. There’s a tasty wistfulness to Nourigat’s vocals, whose phrasing and tones conjure up suggestions of Buffet.
The laidback folk-rocker “Bad Cards” narrates a tale of hard-earned wisdom and features Paul Nourigat’s son Nick on electric guitar alongside an array of killer session musicians. Whereas “Loving A Child” recalls Willie Nelson because of Nourigat’s vocal style. An evocative violin imbues the tune with a tender sensation.
Paul Nourigat in 2023, photo by Lisa Marie
A song about vanishing friendships, “Will Not Pretend” travels on a sad piano escorted by an electric guitar and a haunting cello. A personal favorite because of its low-slung, creamy melody, a melody highlighted by the twangy drawl of a steel guitar, “Big Ass Serving of Humble” ties the album off with cool folk-rock marinated in country aromas.
At once traditional yet contemporary enough to keep hold of listeners’ ears, Smiles That Pass By exudes genuine charm.
Smiles That Pass By Track Listing:
1. Assumed It Would Happen
2. Call Us What You Please
3. Smiles That Pass By
4. Bad Cards
5. Loving A Child
6. Yesterday’s Winner
7. Will Not Pretend
8. Island Strumming
9. Miles Between Us
10. Big Ass Serving of Humble
Run Time: 32:52
Release Date: May 17, 2024
Record Label: Independent
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