Many believe that great stories begin at twenty. Portland-based singer-songwriter Paul Nourigat proves the opposite: you can start singing and fall in love with music at any age. On his sixtieth birthday, he gifted himself his first used guitar from Craigslist – and that moment became a true rebirth. After a calm, fulfilled life, Paul discovered a new world of sounds and emotions. He is happy, even a bit surprised by his late vocation, and sincerely appreciates every bit of interest in his music. His music is pure Americana, multilayered, just like his biography. It’s hard to find a better storyteller than someone who lived in twelve houses before adulthood, having spent time in Taiwan, Turkey, Germany, and later in the U.S. This wandering experience taught him to value the complexity and variety of human destinies. As a result, his songs are a collection of truths, perspectives, and a gentle, disarming humor.
The new release “Curious Directions,” Paul’s sixth album, consists of fifteen tracks dedicated to life’s crossroads – the ones we choose and the ones chosen for us. He skillfully draws the listener into his musical stories, creating ballads in which many, regardless of age or gender, will recognize their own experiences. An essential touch: everything was recorded the old-fashioned way – analog. No AI, just honest folk, country, and rock music. Producing his work in Portland, Paul, a true globalist, brings in session musicians from around the world to infuse his songs with even more vivid sonic colors.
And just when you might think – could it get any more intricate? Fifteen tracks about fate’s turnings! Yet, Paul wouldn’t be himself without leaving us a small “hook” at the very beginning. After all, every journey, no matter how long or winding, begins with a single step – or in our case, with the first track “Curious Directions.” So, brushing off the metaphorical vinyl dust (since the recording is analog, after all), let’s see where these “Curious Directions” lead us. It’s gentle folk-rock with warm guitars and a smooth rhythm where the past and present sound like two sides of the same road. Paul sings calmly and sincerely – and this sincerity becomes the heart of the entire album.
Oh, how tempting it is to describe every single track here! But instead of turning this into a long essay, I’ll share just the juiciest bits. The track that deserves special attention is “Tunes In My Mind.” The song immediately captures with its expressive vocals – slightly bold, engagingly emotive. The backing vocals respond perfectly, giving the song space and atmosphere. The drum rhythm maintains a steady pulse, while flowing guitar and keyboard lines draw a path for the imagination. Every detail in the arrangement is crafted so that the listener can sink into the story Paul tells.
“They’re Counting You” sounds gorgeous – the guitars, with their gentle, sliding tone, add a touch of subtle melancholy. Everything moves slowly, yet with feeling. The drums add just enough tension, while Paul’s expressive vocal holds the listener’s focus. The track “Takes Guts To Change” is devilishly good! That catchy rhythm and hooky melody instantly stick and make you want to dance. Here, Paul feels like a true hero of the Wild West – confident and effortlessly cool. I also recommend the single “Don’t Say Game Over” – a personal story conveyed through the sound of contemporary Americana. It’s dedicated to those who chase their dreams and those who help others expand their horizons. The world changes when we believe in the impossible.
Speaking of life’s jolts – “Sliding Side To Side” is a lively, optimistic song for those shaken by life’s waves. Paul smiles as he recalls a childhood without seatbelts – well, we survived then, and we’ll make it now! It’s hand-made, pure folk-rock with an atmosphere of trust in tomorrow. The message between the lines is clear: chaos is no obstacle, just keep dancing. “Imagined Places,” the leading single released ahead of the album, resonates with nostalgia – a warm folk-rock recollection of times when your pockets were empty, but your dreams already led the way. Paul gently compares “then” and “now,” reminding us that the greatest discoveries begin with imagination. Dream – and move forward.
The closing track “Bit Loose and Carefree” is raw folk rock- a response to the constant negativity pouring from politicians and the media. Paul boldly blends expressive guitar with his signature half-sung, half-spoken vocal delivery, giving the message clarity and strength. The video, filmed in picturesque Hood River, highlights the song’s natural essence. It’s folk-rock with a message: we’ll get through, no matter what. And be sure to check out the videos for the album’s leading singles – “Imagined Places”, “Sliding Side To Side”, “Don’t Say Game Over”, and “From The Same Cup” – they’re an absolute pleasure to watch!
And so, we’ve gone through the main crossroads of this album. “Curious Directions” was crafted by someone who’s truly seen life. It’s remarkably balanced – energetic songs alongside melodic ballads for quiet reflections. Its main motto? It’s never too late! Paul Nourigat found his guitar at sixty – what will you find? Let this album be your first step.
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