NEW YORK STATE OF MIND
Steven Chera’s New York State of Mind: A Crooner’s Tribute to Timeless Tunes
Steven Chera’s debut album New York State of Mind, self-released on September 9, 2012, marks the Brooklyn native’s entry into recording with a 14-track collection of pop and rock standards reimagined through his smooth, Sinatra-inspired crooner lens. Spanning 43 minutes, the record blends soft rock ballads from the 1960s and 1970s with Billy Joel’s iconic title track, showcasing Chera’s warm baritone, relaxed phrasing, and quintessential New York swagger honed from years performing in NYC venues. As his first full-length effort, it sets the stage for later releases like Smile and In the Key of Jazz, establishing Chera as a modern interpreter of classics for lounge and supper club crowds.
Tracklist and Highlights
The album opens with Eric Clapton’s “Wonderful Tonight” (2:56), followed by Blood, Sweat & Tears’ “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy” (3:27), The Association’s “Never My Love” (3:04), and the centerpiece “N.Y. State of Mind” (3:26), with additional tracks like “The Wonder of You” rounding out a mix of romantic ballads and mid-tempo swings. Chera’s covers emphasize emotional intimacy over bombast, transforming guitar-driven originals into piano-led jazz-pop arrangements with subtle brass and rhythm sections that evoke Rat Pack elegance.
- “Wonderful Tonight”: A velvety slow-dance opener highlighting Chera’s breathy timbre and gentle swing.
- “N.Y. State of Mind”: Faithful yet personalized take on Billy Joel’s anthem, infused with urban pride and big-city romance.
- “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy”: Buoyant brass lifts this into playful territory, showcasing Chera’s charismatic delivery.
Musical Style and Production
Chera draws from early influences like Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, and Dean Martin, delivering standards with a “fresh, new, jazzy sound” that avoids strict imitation in favor of personal flair. Self-released production delivers crisp, professional sound—clean mixes, balanced instrumentation, and no filler—making it venue-ready for spots like the Metropolitan Room where Chera has performed. At 43 minutes, the pacing suits casual listening or intimate sets, bridging golden oldies with contemporary appeal akin to Harry Connick Jr.’s early work.
Context in Chera’s Career
As Chera’s 2012 debut, New York State of Mind reflects his shift from hobbyist singer—performing since his teens—to professional crooner collaborating with the Bob Kaye Jazz Trio. It precedes themed projects like his Elvis tribute and Beatles jazz covers, while available on Apple Music, Spotify, and other platforms, it underscores his grassroots rise via live shows and social media. For NYC-based fans of the American Songbook revival, this album embodies hometown sophistication amid a wave of modern crooners.
Final Assessment
New York State of Mind succeeds as an assured debut, blending accessibility with sophistication to honor its sources while carving Chera’s suave niche. Strong vocal presence, smart song choices, and polished execution make it a standout for standards enthusiasts seeking heartfelt, swing-infused nostalgia without gimmicks. Stream it for an ideal introduction to Chera’s timeless style—perfect for evoking Big Apple evenings
