After more than a decade away from the recording studio, Paul Cebar has reemerged with a vibrant new self-titled album, Paul Cebar, released on September 12, 2025. To mark the occasion, Cebar will take the stage at FitzGerald’s in Berwyn, Illinois, on September 13, performing alongside his longtime band, Tomorrow Sound. The launch event is more than just a concert—it is a celebration of Cebar’s musical journey and a reaffirmation of his eclectic, genre-defying artistry.
The album is his first full-length studio project in 11 years and represents both a return to form and a bold step forward. Known for his unique fusion of rhythm and blues, soul, zydeco, Latin, and pop influences, Cebar has built a loyal following across decades of touring and recording. With this latest release, he not only revisits the rich sonic textures that have defined his sound, but expands them further with fresh arrangements, heartfelt lyrics, and a wide roster of musical collaborators.
Comprised of eleven tracks, Paul Cebar showcases the full range of his musical palette. Listeners will encounter a blend of garage rock energy, doo-wop harmonies, Tex-Mex flavors, reggae beats, and vintage soul grooves. The album features standout contributions from members of his Tomorrow Sound ensemble—bassist Mike Fredrickson, drummer Reggie Bordeaux, and multi-instrumentalist Bob Jennings—alongside a host of guest musicians. These include New Orleans-based artists like saxophonist Derek Huston and trombonist Charlie Halloran, as well as Chicago favorites such as trumpeter Doug Corcoran, NRBQ’s Scott Ligon, and engineer-producer Alex Hall.
Cebar, whose roots trace back to Milwaukee but who has long been part of Chicago’s vibrant music scene, brings a deep familiarity with the city’s venues and audiences. His past performances at legendary locations such as Lounge Ax, Cubby Bear, and FitzGerald’s have made him a beloved presence in the local live music circuit. The upcoming album launch show at FitzGerald’s is expected to draw a packed house of longtime fans and new listeners alike. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., and the performance begins at 8:30 p.m., promising an evening of high-energy music and intimate storytelling.
Beyond the infectious rhythms and danceable tracks, the new album also reveals a more introspective side of Cebar. The lyrics speak to aging, memory, resilience, and the subtle transformations of time. It’s an album that balances the exuberance of live music with the deeper reflections of a seasoned artist. Each song feels meticulously crafted, yet spontaneous—true to the spirit of a performer who has spent his life mastering the balance between structure and improvisation.
Critics who have previewed the album are already calling it one of his most accomplished works to date. The production is both rich and organic, allowing each instrument and vocal line to shine without overpowering the ensemble sound. The result is a body of work that feels both timeless and current, drawing on musical traditions while forging a voice that is distinctly Paul Cebar’s own.
The release of Paul Cebar comes at a time when many veteran musicians are stepping back or retreating from the spotlight. Cebar, by contrast, is leaning in—with new music, live shows, and a clear message that creativity doesn’t fade with time. If anything, it deepens. For fans of roots music, global rhythms, and heartfelt songwriting, this album is not just a return—it’s a rediscovery.
As the lights go up at FitzGerald’s and Cebar takes the stage with Tomorrow Sound, the audience will witness not just a concert, but the continuation of a lifelong musical conversation. After 11 years of silence in the studio, Paul Cebar’s voice rings out again—resonant, rhythmic, and more relevant than ever.