Ron Kaplan
New York
Kaplan Records

By George Harris
May 2008 Vol. 6 No. 4

Leave it to a California gentleman to put out a definitive tribute to the Big Apple. Vocalist Ron Kaplan is my kind of singer: both by his terrific tone and impeccable delivery. Kaplan sounds like he's been around the block a few times, and is here to tell you about it and you will want to hear what he has to say.

As relaxed and confident as only an old pro is able, Kaplan takes on New York-based themes like Duke Ellington's "Drop Me Off In Harlem" with great ease and style. During the bass duet intro on "Lullaby Of Broadway" and along with the supporting bluesy tenor saxophone on "Harlem Nocturne", Kaplan brings off a streetwise delivery that sounds like a Rolex salesman in Times Square.

Storytelling like a confidant in the back of a bar on "Give It Back To The Indians", Kaplan can deliver this old Tin Pan Alley tune as if it's the latest news on a stock tip. As you listen to his easygoing and avuncular delivery on the closing chestnut "Manhattan", you can't help but imagine yourself waltzing along Central Park with a Nathan's famous in your fist. Ron Kaplan's New York is as authentic as Ray's pizza, and just as tasty.