Music … Below are each of Paul’s six albums. No AI here, just Paul’s original lyrics and compositions, created by great human musicians, great human production, and packed full of authentic human feelings! Paul writes all songs around a central theme of each album, then for each song he selects the genre and tempo he’s feeling, then selects the instrumentalists that can contribute to that unique sound. This authentic approach offers listeners a unique array of vibes, built upon his storytelling.
Curious Directions … October, 2025
Paul's sixth album, Curious Directions, centers on the forks in the roads of life; the directions we chose, or which are chosen for us. Most of the album’s 15 tracks share Paul's compelling belief in the future, with a few leaning into life's "darker diversions".
The rich lyrics are wrapped in a delicious blend of instrumentalists from Paris, Atlanta, London, Kiev, Cyrus, Milan, Rio de Janeiro, Istanbul, and Paul's hometown in Portland Oregon. His signature multi-genre Americana vibe, is enriched with multiple drummers, pianists, and backing vocalists, offering layers of sounds that provide unique variations throughout the album, including multiple guitarists (bass, acoustic, dobro, lap steel, pedal steel, and electric).
For Music videos, song links, and insights behind the lyrics, for the 15 songs on this album, go to "newest-album"
B-Side Guys - “Curious Directions succeeds because Nourigat writes from genuine perspective rather than adopted pose. His wide-ranging life experiences and constant observation provide a deep well of material that all ages and genders can relate to. The multi-genre Americana style never feels calculated or market-tested—it’s natural expression of someone who absorbed various musical traditions and synthesizes them intuitively.”
Vox Magazine - “Curious Directions” was crafted by someone who’s truly seen life. It’s remarkably balanced – energetic songs alongside melodic ballads for quiet reflections. Its main motto? It’s never too late! Paul Nourigat found his guitar at sixty – what will you find? Let this album be your first step."
Music On The Rox magazine - “Expect Curious Directions to feel like a walk through a forest at dusk, sometimes winding, sometimes clear, sometimes shadowed, always intentional. Nourigat seems poised to lean harder into contrast: intimacy and scale, silence and lushness, the known and the unknown. Longtime listeners will feel the familiar heart beneath the new ideas, while newcomers will find a thoughtful guide through nuanced songwriting that rewards repeat listens.”
Smiles That Pass By … May 2024
This album's 10 original tracks reflect life’s big lessons and "aha moments" from Paul’s six decades on this good earth. Musicians in London, Milan, Paris, Buenos Aires, LA, Austin, and his home state of Oregon collaborated with him.
The Ark of Music: “Bad Cannot Be Good is socially-conscious Blues-Rock at its best and is a demonstration of Nourigat’s exceptional development as an artist. The guitar work is killer throughout but the deeper message behind the song is what really shines. Nourigat’s vocal delivery fits the song well; utilizing the half-spoken, half-sung style made famous by the likes of Dylan and Knopfler.“ Read full review
Walter Price - The GTC ezine: “With comparisons to Jim Lauderdale and Guy Clark under his belt, with his latest release, “Assumed It Would Happen”, Portland singer-songwriter Paul Nourigat can add thoughts of Robert Earl Keen and Jimmy Buffett to his vibe repertoire. Sentimental and full of heart, “Assumed It Would Happen” is as much of an Americana beauty as it is a documentation of a life lived.”
Darryl Sterdan - Tinnitist EZine: “Nourigat has a richly diverse catalog of songs that traverse folk, country, rock, and blues. The Portland, Oregon artist’s album “Smiles That Pass By”, stands out in his oeuvre for being his most uplifting and empowering. It features 10 original songs brimming with universally resonant personal stories and a-ha moments, reaching across genres and generations.”
Fernando Rafael Santos - Roadie Music: “Will Not Pretend” is not just a song, but an emotional narrative that offers Paul's unique perspective on the intricate paths of friendships throughout his six decades of life. This song is an authentic celebration of the human journey, marked by a moving soundtrack. The song highlights the importance the singer attaches to friendships, regardless of the challenges that may arise along the way, inviting listeners to reflect on the richness of human relationships and to value the connections that enrich our lives.”
Complex Truths … November 2023
Complex Truths takes a serious turn from Paul’s prior album (“Slightly Serious”), with 10 originals that speak to his views on the " top 10 opportunities for improvement” in society. Classifying himself as a realistic idealist, Paul firmly believes that we can alter behaviors and approaches for our common good, while still respecting individualism and choice!
Keith Pro - Indie Band Guru: … “Beginning with “Natural Stupidity” we know immediately that Paul Nourigat is a true storyteller that is unafraid to tackle tough subjects. A steady Americana-tinged beat lays a mellow base. His smooth, yet raw vocal delivery lets us take in each word with feeling.” Read full review
Ken Morton - Highwire Daze Magazine … “ … he fearlessly places his own wit and wisdom into his artistry, and the results should appeal to all types of music fans. Highwire Daze recently caught up with Paul Nourigat to preview his upcoming Complex Truths endeavor and to learn a bit more about his remarkable candor and honesty through his craft.” Read full interview
Gwen Waggoner - Scope Magazine … “Nourigat’s Complex Truths demos definitely make forceful lyrical and musical statements and leave listeners wanting more. These songs, especially the first two, are compositions that have simmered within Nourigat for some time. Many listeners encountering Nourigat’s talents for the first time will hear a kindred spirit.” Read full review