New release: The Funk Album
When it comes to blending musical history with fresh, feel-good energy, few artists do it quite like Tony Marino. The award-winning composer, pianist, and genre-bending musician is back with his 23rd album, The Funk Album, released on May 21, 2025—and it’s everything fans hoped for. Packed with rhythm, heart, and personality, this project is a funky celebration of joy, connection, and Marino’s deep Philadelphia roots.
A Musical Legend Reigniting the Groove
Over the years, Marino has earned a reputation as a fearless innovator. His catalog spans everything from Bebop and Brazilian Jazz to Tango, Afro-Cuban rhythms, and even Country. But The Funk Album feels like something different—it’s not just an exploration of a new style, it’s a homecoming.
Growing up in South Philadelphia, Marino was surrounded by rhythm and soul. Funk music poured out of car radios and dance clubs, shaping his love of groove and performance. That early influence comes roaring back here, with 11 original tracks that pulse with energy and emotion.
Drawing inspiration from funk legends like James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Dr. John, Kool & The Gang, and Rick James, Marino channels their spirit without ever copying it. The result is an album that nods to funk’s golden era while sounding undeniably fresh—a blend of nostalgia and modern creativity that only Tony Marino could deliver.
Stories from the Dance Floor
What makes The Funk Album shine is its storytelling. Each track plays like a scene in a film—or better yet, a night at your favorite club. You can practically feel the bass thump through your chest and the crowd moving to the beat.
The opening track, “Would You Like to Dance,” sets the tone with irresistible rhythm and charm, inviting listeners to let loose. “I’m Serious” follows with playful confidence—things are heating up, and Marino knows it. “Can I Have This Dance” slows things down, capturing that tender moment when two people finally connect under the glow of stage lights.
Then comes “The Deptford Tavern,” a tribute to a real New Jersey nightclub where South Philly locals once gathered to dance and mingle. It’s nostalgia wrapped in funk. Other standouts like “Turn It Down” and “Wednesday Afternoon” bring balance—songs that groove and breathe, reminding listeners that funk can be smooth, soulful, and deeply human.
A Tribute to Musical Legends and Memories
Marino never forgets the artists who inspired him or the people who shaped his story. His track “Dr. John” is a heartfelt salute to the late Malcolm John Rebennack Jr., better known as Dr. John—one of the coolest and most influential musicians of all time. Meanwhile, “East River Drive” brings a wave of nostalgia, recalling childhood summers filled with family picnics, laughter, and music drifting through the air.
Even “Cigars in the Garage,” a reimagined version of a song from an earlier album, carries emotional weight. It’s dedicated to Marino’s dear friend Mel Duncan, whose garage cigar sessions inspired countless good memories.
Joy, Rhythm, and Connection
Beyond its grooves, The Funk Album is about community and togetherness. Funk, after all, has always been about unity—people coming together to celebrate life through rhythm. Marino captures that beautifully in songs like “Lighten Up” and “Let’s Have a Good Time,” both of which remind us that no matter what’s happening in the world, there’s always room for music, laughter, and dancing.
A Message from Tony Marino
As Marino himself says, “Stay kind, stay joyful, and don’t forget to Funk!” It’s more than just a catchphrase—it’s a philosophy that radiates through every note of this album.
The Funk Album is a must-listen for anyone who loves music that grooves, uplifts, and tells a story. It’s both a tribute to the legends who came before and a joyful continuation of their legacy. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Tony Marino’s sound, this record will move your feet and lift your spirit.
Listen to The Funk Album now on Spotify and all major streaming platforms.
