On his third release as a band leader, vocalist Gary Brumburgh revisits Broadway hits. His approach is not one of pure nostalgia. Brumburgh has revisioned the works and applied his gentle, energetic touches to give beloved songs added verve and swing. “Full Circle” is set for release March 25, 2022.
About Gary Brumburgh
It seems Brumburgh’s first love was musical theater. Therefore, it was no surprise that after an unfulfilling stint as a teacher, after having earned a degree in Elementary Education, Brumburgh set off in search of the thing he had loved since he was 14 – – musicals. He scored a role in a production of “Oklahoma!” and a new passion was found. After three years of teaching, Brumburgh returned to his alma mater, Florida State University and earned a second bachelor degree, this time in fine arts.
Brumburgh moved to Los Angeles in 1978 to pursue an acting career. He found work in plays, commercials, movies, and television. Eventually, Brumburgh found himself singing back-up in one of the MGM specials of Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme. His work led to him getting a role in “City of Angels.”
“City of Angels” introduced Brumburgh to jazz. In 2003, he left musicals for jazz. He found new inspiration in the music of Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, and Mel Torme. That passion for jazz led to Brumburgh becoming a performer, a vocalist, in his own right. In 2008, Brumburgh released his first album, “Up Jumped Spring.” Around the same time, the singer was diagnosed with head and neck cancer. The malady struck twice before going into remission in 2016. Two years later, Brumburgh released “Moonlight” his second album as a leader.
“Full Circle” by Gary Brumburgh
In some ways, “Full Circle” describes Brumbrugh. Here, he returns to the musical theater tunes that were once his passion and imbues them with his version of verve-packed, swinging energy. Each song is made special by Brumburgh’s interpretations, and the generous way he allows soloists have room to really stretch out and bring songs into their full expression.
All of the songs are recommended. Brumburgh’s own story is a lesson in triumphing over adversity. The passion he gives to his music makes audiences lean forward, engaged and pleasantly surprised by the songs they perhaps thought they knew.
Of particular interest are “Celebration” and “Ev’rybody’s Gotta Be Somewhere.” Brumburgh’s smooth vocals are tinged with a sense of story that makes the songs personal. Audiences will likely find Brumburgh’s sound and persona welcoming, and his interpretation interesting.
“Full Circle” will be released from Cafe Pacific Records and will be available everywhere records are sold.
