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Raul Malo at City Winery in April
Born in Miami to a middle-class Cuban couple, Raúl Francisco Martínez-Malo Jr. — who turned 45 in August — fronted the accomplished Tex-Mex country-rock band the Mavericks.
Since going solo, he’s tapped standards that stretch back to before some of us were born, popular love songs made for slow dancing in the parlor, and lesser-known tunes capable of bringing men to their feet and women to their knees.
(Old line? Yes. But so appropriate here.)
“You’re Only Lonely“
Last week, Malo released the new “Sinners & Saints,” filled with songs he wrote, along with Rodney Crowell’s brilliant “Til’ I Gain Control Again’ and Los Lobos’ “Saint Behind the Glass.”
“ Sinners & Saints“
I don’t condone bootlegging for profit. But there could be no better advertisement for Raul than this clip, shot in April at City Winery, the best club in Manhattan for singer-songwriters:
“Hello Again“
and this….
“Crying“
Too often, venues around here trot out tired retreads. Not this time. This is an opportunity North Jersey rarely gets — to witness an immense talent in his prime. This is what sets Mexicali Blues apart from larger competitors.
“All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down“
Jerry DeMarco Publisher/Editor
Dinner, wine and candles make for sweet first dates — no question. But take an amazing voice, an eclectic selection of gorgeous tunes and a masterfully designed venue, and ….
well…
Allow yourself the opportunity to be surprised and you just might be.
“Let It Be Me“
IF YOU’RE GOING — OR WANT TO:
Doors open: 6 / Raul goes on: 10 / Opening act: Still listed TBA
(However: Shannon Whitworth officially joined the tour this weekend)
It’s general admission, so get there early. The food is good, too. Come up and say “hello” if you spot me.
For more video, and audio: Raul Malo’s MySpace page / ALSO: RaulMalo.com / For more on the venue: Mexicali Live
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