David de Alba Sings Classic Pop
Review by Charles Dougherty
David de Alba Sing Classic Pop “David has transcended the female impersonation genre to become a super recording artist. This is a genuine crossover.” Charles Dougherty
This latest CD release, “David de Alba Sings Classic Pop”, is aptly named. All of the selections from North and Latin America belong in that category, and form a delightful bouquet of melodies that will surely please the most discriminating music lover. As an added touch, the background music has been provided by former concert pianist, Linda La Blanche and her keyboard synthesizer. This combination has proven to be the perfect vehicle to showcase David’s gifted voice.
I met David de Alba when he worked at the Finocchio Club in San Francisco a long time ago. At the time, he was a powerful attraction in the show and a definite crowd pleaser. Many years passed, until last just recently, I had the opportunity to hear some of his recordings. I was amazed at his metamorphosis. Both his Judy Garland and Boy-Chic characterizations are refined and sophisticated, mainly due to his seasoned singing style and voice. Paradoxically, David’s voice has improved over the years; there is softness, feeling and especially, more staying power in the higher ranges. Without a doubt, he has one the finest Broadway and cabaret voices of today.
“David de Alba Sings Classic Pop” offers quality, most of all, in an age where new styles and strange sounds are presented to the public as 'music'. This album contains proven hit tunes that have endured and passed the test of time. Notably, “With a Song in My Heart”, “Granada”, I’m Gonna Live Until I Die”, and the bonus track, “Almost in Your Arms”, are the highlights of this production.
“With a Song in My Heart” is an impressive interpretation reminiscent of Ruth Roman; I’ve heard “Granada” sang by the great tenors of today, but David brings a new twist to this number by combining softness and strength in his delivery. His theme song, “I’m Gonna Live Until I Die” brings out David’s passion and feeling at his best, and “Almost in Your Arms” is one of the best renditions ever given in his contralto pitch.
Also worthy of honorable mention are the opening number, “Showbiz Melody”, “Night and Day”, “As Time Goes By”, “Strangers in the Night”, “Piel Canela”, “Malaguena” (sang in Castilian Spanish), and “Al Di Lŕ”. The remaining numbers, however, are just as strong as the ones above mentioned; David pours his soul and emotion in each and every song, beautifully executed and just as pleasing to the ear.
There are two sections, beginning with songs sang in English and ending with songs in Spanish. Subtly but firmly, there is a buildup throughout the album that takes the listener to a controlled release of emotion.
This production is solid; great songs, beautiful melodic sound provided by Linda La Blanche, and the unique, caressing voice of David de Alba are a sure hit. David has transcended the female impersonation genre to become a super recording artist. This is a genuine crossover.
I am honored and pleased to participate in reviewing the work of a future Superstar. Good luck to you, David.
What people are saying about David's new CD:
Mr. de Alba’s certainly kicked off the New Year in grand manner with his latest hit “David de Alba Sings Classic Pop”. I’ve been a fan of his for over a year, and by now I’m totally accustomed to his style, which I greatly enjoy. This time, however, I was very surprised by his sudden change of selections and sound. From beginning to end I thoroughly enjoyed this “new” updated version of my favorite singer. The songs in this CD are more contemporary, and truly are “pop classic” numbers. The new arrangements are rich in texture and beautifully frame Mr. de Alba’s voice (in top shape, I might add).
There are no highs and lows in his CD; every song stands on its own merit and can please different tastes. The show is on starting with his “Showbiz Medley” and ends with a bang with “I’m Gonna Live Until I Die”. The old classics such as “As Time Goes By” and “With a Song in my Heart” join the newer classics like “Misty, “Strangers in the Night”, and the even more contemporary “Just the Way You Are” and “The Look of Love.” For the Spanish music lovers there is “Granada”, superbly sung by David, “El Relicario” and “Malagueńa”.
One cannot go wrong with this CD; it belongs in everybody’s collection of favorites CDs. Congratulations David, for such success. Here’s hoping that you continue to provide your fans with sure hits like this one!
David de Alba Sings Classic Pop . . . and that is exactly what I found it to be, Mr. De Alba's best work yet . . . truly a "Classic" CD. From the Showbiz Medley thru The Look of Love I was taken back to so many fond memories of my own personal life as David helped my imagination soar to even greater heights with his original song styles and his wonderful selection of material that I found sooooo entertaining. Through the Spanish songs and past his signature song, "I'm Gonna Live Until I Die" kept that same energy alive all the way through the Bonus Track, "Almost In Your Arms".
As a personal friend of David de Alba I would like to say "Great Job". Don't stop singing because you touch so many lives when you do. Thank you for sharing your wonderful talent with so many people. We truly do love you David de Alba. Many blessings and continued success.
Your last and latest CD was an enjoyable work of Art and greatly appreciated. I will listen to the CD as a keepsake.
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