Review by Linda La Blanche

There had to be a most powerful reason to force this old critic out of retirement. After 10 years of giving the verdict on the talents of most of Europe’s famous songbirds, as well as many of America’s icons of both, classical and pop music, I decided it was time to relax and enjoy the remainder of my life.

However, a few months ago, I came upon a CD recording of David de Alba by chance, and it changed my entire perspective on retirement. This artist’s peerless and unique voice led me to seek all of his recorded works, and eventually, arrange a meeting to know the person behind the voice.

We met at his Arizona recording studio, where I had the opportunity to view some videos of David de Alba’s live performances on stage and TV shows. It was a revelation to see his amazing transformations which further enhance the illusion of the characters he portrays. I found Mr. De Alba to be a warm, sensitive human being, but above all, an artist in every sense of the word. There is a quality about his demeanor and temperament that belies his only purpose in life, his art form. The consistency in David’s solid performances is not only a testimonial of his dedication and commitment to his career, but an omen of success as well. His attitude alone should enable him to reach the highest goals in show business.

Awed by his determination and gifted voice, I decided then and there that I had to support and promote such a talented artist. The minute I found out that David was about to release his fifth CD album, “Upon Request”, I hanged my “Open for Business” sign once more and wrote him offering to review his latest work. I was thrilled when his European agent notified me that Mr. de Alba had accepted my request.

Incidentally, all of David’s previous albums are a unique collector’s item for lovers of the female impersonation genre. Unlike many other performers, there is no falsetto when he sings; his female voice comes from the upper part of his natural range, which is a refreshing change of pace from other pop queens everywhere. Aside from possessing a privileged voice, he is the only artist from the world famous Finocchio Club to record and release to the public any material from that club. Therefore, it was with anticipation that I set upon reviewing “Upon Request”.

In this 5th CD album, David provides the listener a thorough international flavor of melodies featuring “evergreens” from around the globe. As any Diva lover of today knows, diversity is the key to reach all audiences, and this album’s selections transport us to Hollywood, Broadway, Latin America and Europe! Although the album’s central theme is to acknowledge the many requests from fans and friends for some additional numbers, David has some surprises for us in store. With his silken, captivating voice, and superb musical tracks, he sheds a new light on several selections.

“Day In, Day Out” and “You Make Me Feel So Young” are bouncy and lively, yet soft and caressing at the same time, thus bringing new life and style to these well-known Lena Horne and Frank Sinatra tunes. On the other side of the spectrum, “Under Paris Skies”, “Call Me”, “’Till There Was You” and “Carnival Medley” gives us David’s sentimental, haunting and romantic side, superbly executed in his “Boy-Chic” interpretation.

For those who aren’t familiar with his act, David’s forté lies in doing Judy Garland’s impersonations, and those selections are of the highest quality ever done on the famous Diva. When you hear “You Made Me Love You”, “For Me and My Gal” , “The Trolley Song”, “Almost Like Being in Love”, ”This Can’t Be Love”, “Lorna”, “Maybe I’ll Come Back” and “By Myself”, you could close you eyes and almost swear that it’s Judy singing. These songs are classics, and David’s soulful, introspective and subtle voice brings them to a new level of excellence!

A special treat in the album is “You’re Nearer”, sang a cappella. It is here that one can appreciate the fine range, modulation and subtlety of David’s voice. This is a poignant rendition that you can’t miss!

There is also a great selection and a brief appearance of Liza Minnelli’s “Yes!”, courtesy of David’s impersonation of this famous Diva.

In my opinion, he has one of the finest Broadway and night club voices today, which is particularly emphasized in his rendition of “Big Spender”, ”Where Am I Going?” and “You Are the Sunshine of My Life”. His flawless, subtle style works his way into your heart without the garish and superfluous displays so prevalent in today’s singers.

And now, I wanted to save the surprise for the last. Cuban-born Mr. de Alba shows us his Latin side in this great recording! The CD has several selections which are epic versions as well as great hits in both the Spanish and Anglo music world, such as “Cuando Calienta el Sol”, “Copacabana”, “Sabor a Mí”, and the Bonus Track: “Amor”. Lesser known, though equally beautiful selections in Spanish, are “Estrellita del Sur”, “Me Voy Pal’ Pueblo”, and ”Capullito de Alelí”.

Without a doubt, these songs establish David as one of the best Latin female Divas today. Besides that peerless, caressing voice, his passion, technical skill, and subtle nuances makes each performance soar to the highest level of excellence. It doesn’t matter if you don’t understand the lyrics; the voice alone will touch you and linger in your ears for a long time!

David can connect with the feeling of each song better than most; he can exude joy, sadness or passion at will. His simplicity contributes to his success; no big orchestras or background singers to adorn his performances. He even sings a cappella, which validates his genuine, peerless voice.

“Upon Request” is truly in the “Platinum Record” category. David’s gifted voice, the right song selections, the diverse and excellent musical arrangements, contribute to enhance this magnificent production.

This is definitely an album that will stand the test of time. Its content goes beyond pop or classical music because it is unique. Alba/Ryner, Ltd., has scored the biggest hit to date with this brilliant production, and I, personally, want to be the first one to congratulate David for his success!

Contact Alba/Ryner Ltd. to order CDs at david-heri@earthlink.net David will personally autograph your CD upon request. Linda La Blanche, International Music Reviewer