Everybody's Talkin' - Mario Said

 

The Fool On The Hill

Everybody's Talkin'

Mario Said

Producer: Tommy Oliver

Orchestra Arranged and Conducted by Tommy Oliver

Engineer: Lanky Linstrot

Art Direction: Woody Woodward

Design: Halmos

Cover Photography: Bernie Negler

Back Liner Photography: John Engstead

Liberty Records LST-7601

1969

From the back cover: It is beginning to seem that the world owes a great deal to Latin America... not only in terms of festivals in Rio, summer skiing in Portillo, or beaches in Peru; but in terms of music and talent, there may soon be no equal to what Latin America has given to the rest of the world. And it terms of Mario Said, the gift has been a big one. For over the past four years, Mario Said has become one of the most respected pianists in the musical community.

Born in Colon, the Republic of Panama, it was Mario's parents who first encouraged him to pursue the course of studying music. Within several years, both his talent and his interest had grown to such an extent that while he was still in high school, he formed a small band and toured the U.S. Army Bases in and around the Panama Canal Zone. Later, he continued his studies at the Conservatory Of Music in Panama for the next eight years, and later performed in the National Theater of Panama. His playing since that time has become well known and respected for its creative combinations of Latin rhythms mixed with classical and contemporary sounds. For in all of Mario Said's renditions of any of the songs in this album, there is the relaxed presence of a mind at ease, and the creative expertise with which Mario Said is able to play.

The fact that there is an orchestra behind Said is no mistake; for along with the artfulness of producer Tommy Oliver, it is an orchestration which lends towards the talents of Mario rather than detracts from them. And one which instead of just filling empty space, blends and enhances the unique playing style of Mario.

But the album ends on a tragic note, not musically, but personally – for it is Mario Said's last album. Shortly after its completion, he passed away – suddenly and unexpectedly. This album commemorates a great man and an outstanding musician.

Ev'rybody's Talkin'

I Say A Little Prayer

Never My Love

Sealed With A Kiss

Every Step I Take (Every Move I Make)

The Fool On The Hill

Promises, Promises

Brown Eyed Woman

Harper Valley P.T.A.

California Soul

The Weight

Montage From How Sweet It Is (I Knew That You Knew)