Doug Ferony Swings Back Time with ‘Alright Okay You Win,’ A Nostalgic Joyride You Can’t Resist

Let’s take a trip down memory lane, shall we? Doug Ferony‘s latest album, “Alright Okay You Win,” is like stumbling upon a time machine disguised as a record player. This seasoned crooner has done it again, folks, serving up a platter of 14 swinging tracks that’ll transport you straight back to the golden age of jazz and big band.

Now, if you’re not familiar with Doug Ferony, let me give you the lowdown. This guy’s been in the industry for years, cutting his teeth in the same school that gave us legends like Sinatra, Bennett, and Darin. He’s not just another voice in the crowd – Ferony’s got that warm, unpretentious baritone that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening.

In “Alright Okay You Win,” Ferony teamed up with his 16-piece Swingin Big band, and let me tell you, they’re not messing around. From the moment you hit play, you’re hit with a wall of sound that’s both nostalgic and fresh. It’s like walking into a swanky 1950s nightclub but with better sound quality and minus the cigarette smoke.

The album starts with “We’ve Only Just Begun.” If you haven’t checked out the video, do yourself a favor and watch it. Ferony’s smooth vocals glide over the lush instrumentation, setting the tone for what’s to come. It’s a bold choice to open with such a well-known tune, but Ferony makes it his own, infusing it with a swinging energy that’ll have you tapping your toes before you know it.

The title track, “Alright Okay You Win,” is a resurrection. Ferony breathes new life into this classic, his voice oozing with charm and a hint of playful resignation. When he sings, “Well alright, okay, you win / I’m in love with you,” you can almost see the wry smile on his face. It’s performances like these that showcase why Ferony’s been pleasing audiences for years.

One of the standout tracks has to be “Do You Wanna Dance (Remix).” Now, I know what you’re thinking – a remix on a big band album? Trust me, it works. Ferony and his team have managed to blend the old with the new, creating a sound that’s both familiar and exciting. It’s the kind of track that could bridge the gap between grandparents and grandkids on the dance floor.

But it’s not all uptempo swing. Ferony shows his versatility with ballads like “Always on My Mind” and “Georgia on My Mind.” His interpretation of these classics is nothing short of masterful. There’s a sincerity in his delivery that makes you believe every word he’s singing. It’s in these quieter moments that you really appreciate the depth of Ferony’s talent.

I’ve got to give a shout-out to the production team. Grammy Award-winning engineer Dave Kowalski has done a stellar job with the mixing and mastering. The balance between Ferony’s vocals and the big band is spot-on, allowing each element to shine without overpowering the others. And let’s not forget the arrangements by Khadafy Khan, Clark Gault, and Steve Kesseler – they’ve managed to make these well-worn standards sound fresh and exciting.

From start to finish, there’s not a weak track in the album. Whether it’s the playful “You Make Me Feel So Young” or the sultry “East of the Sun (West of the Moon),” each song is delivered with the same level of skill and enthusiasm. It’s clear that Ferony isn’t just going through the motions; he’s living and breathing these songs.

Ferony manages to pay homage to the greats while still putting his own stamp on these tunes. He’s not trying to be Sinatra or Bennett; he’s Doug Ferony, and that authenticity shines through in every note. It’s this genuineness that makes the album so enjoyable.

“Alright Okay You Win” is a love letter to a bygone era, delivered with skill, passion, and a healthy dose of swing. Doug Ferony has swung for the fences with this one, and I’ve got to say – it’s a home run.

Alright, okay, Doug Ferony – you win.