SMILE BY STEVEN CHERA

Steven Chera’s Smile, released on October 21, 2013, stands as a polished 14-track collection of Great American Songbook classics, delivered with the Brooklyn-born crooner’s signature Sinatra-esque warmth and swing. Clocking in at 42 minutes, this self-released effort captures Chera’s effortless baritone gliding over lush jazz arrangements, blending intimate ballads with upbeat standards to evoke the golden age of lounge singing. Following his 2012 debut New York State of Mind and the Beatles tribute In the Key of Jazz, Smile solidifies Chera’s place among modern interpreters keeping Rat Pack vibes alive for contemporary ears.

Tracklist and Musical Approach

The album draws from enduring favorites like the title track “Smile” by Charlie Chaplin, alongside staples such as “For All We Know” and others in the crooner canon, reimagined with big-band polish and subtle modern touches. Chera’s phrasing emphasizes emotional depth over flashy scatting, supported by tight rhythm sections and brass swells that nod to Nat King Cole and Dean Martin influences from his early listening days. High production values ensure each track feels venue-ready, ideal for NYC supper clubs where Chera has performed for over two decades.

Standout moments include buoyant swings that lift the mood and tender ballads showcasing vocal control, making Smile a cohesive listen rather than a patchwork of covers.

Strengths and Production Highlights
Chera avoids mimicry, infusing personal flair into each standard—think relaxed swagger on up-tempos and velvety sincerity on slow burns, much like his Rat Pack heroes but with a fresh NYC edge. The self-released nature belies professional polish, with crisp engineering that highlights his timbre without overproduction, appealing to fans of the standards revival led by Bublé and Connick Jr. At 42 minutes, it delivers satisfaction without filler, perfect for casual spins or pre-dinner ambiance

Context in Chera’s Catalog
Positioned between Beatles jazz experiments and later works like The Classic Standards (2016), Smile bridges pop culture nods with pure Songbook devotion, showcasing Chera’s versatility as a live performer turned recording artist. Available on platforms like Apple Music, Spotify, and Boomplay, it reflects his grassroots rise via Instagram clips and Broadway World-featured shows. For jazz-crooner enthusiasts, this record exemplifies why Chera captivates audiences nationwide

Final Verdict

Smile earns high marks as an accessible, heartfelt tribute that honors its sources while carving Chera’s niche—suave, swinging, and sincere. Ideal for fans seeking that elusive lounge glow in 2013’s digital era, it remains a gem in his discography, inviting repeated plays with its unpretentious charm. Stream it to rediscover why standards endure.