Mark Montijo’s latest album ‘If I Get to Heaven’ is a testament to a life steeped in music, storytelling, and the indelible marks of history. With a career that began in the folk-club circuit of the mid-1960s alongside then-unknown icons like Jackson Browne and Tom Waits, Montijo’s sound carries the weight of years spent both on and off the stage. His influences- rooted in that golden era of folk-rock- bring a timeless quality to his music, one that resonates with both nostalgia and relevance.
Montijo’s journey away from the music scene was as eclectic as it was transformative. His ventures, from directing the construction of a Spanish Galleon to building homes and supporting local arts, infused his songwriting with a richness that only comes from living many lives within one. After encouragement from friends and old fans, Montijo’s return to the studio brought us ‘History’, a project that reintroduced his music to listeners and captured much critical acclaim. Now, ‘If I Get to Heaven’ picks up that thread, offering listeners a collection that’s deeply personal, with delicate and touchingly beautiful lyrics.
A poignant example of his storytelling is title-track ‘If I Get To Heaven’. Montijo reflects on the concept of heaven and the version of it often portrayed by televangelists and those preaching judgement. The lyrics carry a bittersweet tone, blending nostalgia with scepticism. He imagines reaching heaven only to question its exclusivity and the divisive “values” preached in its name. There’s a desire to walk freely, meet others, and share asimple, genuine acts of connection. The song ultimately expresses a longing for a heaven of love and inclusivity, leaving listeners with a message of warm goodwill.
Often joined by multi-instrumentalist Lenny Bole, Montijo’s recent performances exude a sincerity and warmth that invite listeners to look back, appreciate the present, and ponder what’s to come. His voice- a blend of weathered wisdom and earnest reflection- guides the listener through a musical landscape that feels as familiar as an old friend’s stories and as refreshing as a new journey. ‘If I Get to Heaven’ is a gathering place for memories, dreams, and the roads not taken.
