David de Alba as Boy-Chic
Still in the Groove !
Review by Micheline Cook
Indeed, David de Alba is still in the groove and gives his fans the music they love to hear . . . and as good as ever! Mr. de Alba’s 11th CD release, in his Boy-Chic persona, features some of the most beautiful American classic songs. There is also as an added bonus, a delightful bouquet of Spanish hits that provides this CD a definite cosmopolitan flavor. His Boy-Chic interpretation holds no restrains (whereas as his Judy Garland or Liza Minnelli personas require it) allowing him to use his full vocal range, and consequently these songs beautifully showcase David’s true talent as never before.
Especially outstanding are “A Man and a Woman”, “My Heart Belongs to Daddy”, “Going Out of my Head” and the medley “Getting to Know You / I have Dreamed”; “A Lovely Way to Spend an Evening” and “From This Moment On” are noteworthy and show David’s voice in top form and style.
The excellent selection of the Spanish songs on the Bonus section will enthrall Latin music lovers. “Ya No Me Quieres” and “Júrame” are an unforgettable rendition of softness and emotion (reminiscent of yesteryear’s older versions of songbirds of the 1950s), followed by the most lively and saucy Cha-Cha-Chas. David’s voice caresses the listener with the Cuban hit “El Bodeguero”, “Poco Pelo”, followed by “Los Marcianos”, another hit from Mexico.
The opening of the Bonus section, “Me Voy Pal' Pueblo” is punctuated by an extremely touching dedication to David’s father, Heri, Sr. who passed away last year (2005) at Christmas time. Although all these Latin songs are outstanding renditions, one can feel the happiness and gaiety in this particular song, which fits him perfectly as Heri, Sr. was always ready to party or go out on the town. This is quite a fitting song choice to honor his memory. Speaking of Bonus Tracks, this CD is almost like two CDs for the price of one; it has 26 songs!
The arrangements by former concert pianist Linda La Blanche are a perfect frame to showcase one of the best Female Illusionist's voices today. This CD is very definitely a true collector's item . . . a must have for not just FI collectors but also for all Latin music lovers!
Oh my God!! I love it!! Tienes una voz divina!! [You have a divine voice.] Te deseo mucho triunfo!! [ I wish you much triumph.]
Y te cuento que me gusta mucho como cantas en Inglés, parece tu lengua materna. Y la voz se presta mucho para este tipo de interpretación. Eres muy bueno!! Que impresionante como pones la voz de mujer y de hombre y en los dos géneros cantas de maravilla! [ I tell you I like very much how you sing in English. It sounds like your mother tongue, and the voice lends itself to that type of interpretation. You are very good. How impressive how you modulate your voice with gal/guy, and in the two genders you sing marvelous! ]
You are a very good singer and every song you "took care of" is worth listening. I was very glad to receive your CD.
I said it before and now I say it again: David de Alba’s artistry transcends all gender barriers and has something for everyone. In this new CD release “Still in the Groove!” Mr. de Alba assumes his Boy-Chic identity, which allows him to sing using this full vocal range. This is quite a treat. I particularly enjoyed his Latin selections of “El Bodeguero”, “Poco Pelo” “Que Rico Vacilón” and “Ya No Me Quieres”. The American evergreens are just as formidable, especially “A Lovely Way to Spend An Evening” and “Getting to Know You / I Have Dreamed”.
This latest CD is a solid hit; it has something for everyone’s taste. Good work, David!