Mike Hagen writes songs that swing, tinged with tongue-in-cheek humor, performed by some of the finest jazz musicians in Cincinnati.

10 MP3 Songs
JAZZ: Traditional Jazz Combo, EASY LISTENING: Lounge



Details:
"This Mason-based musician has been playing music since the '80s, but his sound is pure mid-century. On his jazzy new disc, Come Drink With Me, Hagen takes on classic pop (think Frank Sinatra) and infuses strands of blues and jazz. It's a beautiful listen."
---- Kari Wethington, CiN Weekly

âCome Drink with Meâ has something for everyone: original jazz-pop tunes with arrangements that swing; solid musicianship from some of Cincinnatiâs finest musicians, inventive lyrics, and even a little blues.

Itâs obvious that Mike Hagenâs greatest influences are the music of Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, and the golden age of pop; indeed, many of these songs are a tribute to this great work. He pokes a little fun at their legends: in âIâll Be Frankâ, the singer assumes a Sinatra persona by asking a lady prospect if she âwould grace the pages of (his) little black book?â âMadison Avenue Is Afraid of the Darkâ is a bit more serious as the title refers to Nat King Coleâs famous quote as to why his variety show was cancelled in the 50âs (âhereâs to you, Jackie Robinsonâ). âOut of the Bluesâ recalls Harold Arlen and Johnny Mercerâs blend of pop and blues.

But there are contemporary themes, too. âThe Power of Negative Thinkingâ sets Murphyâs Law to a subtle Latin beat. The title track glorifies the joyous Friday release from work, even as it promotes responsible drinking (âWeâll pay the tab, call a cab, we wonât want to make the mothers MADDâ).

This album is for those who may appreciate an unusual take on the music of this great era.