Pianist, Composer – Tony Marino returns with In A Jam, a vibrant new album set for release on January 12, 2026.
Known for his original compositions that blend jazz, Latin jazz, and world music influences, Marino once again demonstrates his gift for storytelling through sound—this time drawing deeply from personal experience, mentorship, and the rhythmic pulse of Jamaica.
Tony Marino has long been respected for his ability to move fluidly between musical traditions while maintaining a clear, melodic voice of his own. As a pianist and composer, his work reflects a lifelong devotion to jazz harmony and improvisation, enriched by global rhythms and cultural exploration. In A Jam stands as a natural evolution of that journey, offering listeners a cohesive album rooted in reggae-influenced grooves while remaining firmly grounded in jazz.
The inspiration for In A Jam traces back to a formative life moment. Marino and his wife spent their honeymoon in Jamaica—an experience that left an indelible mark on both of them.
The sounds, rhythms, atmosphere, and laid-back spirit of the island quietly stayed with him over the years, eventually resurfacing in his writing. But it was a gentle nudge from a trusted mentor that truly set the project in motion.
Many years ago, the late Rev. Earnest “Hoppy” Hopkins—Marino’s teacher, mentor, and dear friend—offered a simple yet powerful suggestion: “People really like Jamaican rhythms. Why don’t you try writing a song using those rhythms?” That encouragement led Marino to write his first reggae-inspired composition, “Let Me In.” Energized by the result, he went on to compose and record three additional pieces: “Jamaican Rum,” “Montego Bay,” and the title track, “In A Jam.”
These four compositions became the foundation of a larger creative vision. Drawing from honeymoon memories and Hopkins’ guidance, Marino decided to expand the idea into a full album of jazz compositions infused with reggae influences. For the project, he composed four new works: “Booze Cruise,” “Morning Beach Walk,” “Dinner On The Beach,” and “Who Called The Cops.” Each piece captures a distinct scene or mood, painting musical snapshots that feel cinematic, playful, and deeply personal.
Together, the eight tracks form a unified listening experience—one that balances relaxed island rhythms with sophisticated jazz arrangements and improvisational depth. The album doesn’t attempt to imitate reggae tradition outright; instead, it respectfully weaves its rhythmic feel into Marino’s own compositional language, resulting in music that feels both fresh and familiar.
Beyond its musical achievements, In A Jam carries a heartfelt dedication. The album is dedicated to Rev. Earnest Hopkins (November 4, 1924 – January 1, 2003), whose mentorship and friendship left a lasting impact on Marino’s life and artistry. Hopkins’ influence is felt not only in the origins of the project but in the spirit of curiosity, generosity, and joy that runs throughout the record.
With In A Jam, Tony Marino invites listeners into a world shaped by love, memory, mentorship, and rhythm. It is an album meant to be enjoyed from start to finish—whether on a quiet morning, a long drive, or a beach walk of your own. As Marino himself hopes, listeners may find as much joy in hearing this music as he found in creating it.
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