In this first CD of 2002 David has selected many of the International hits of his beloved idols and friends from Cuba, the singing husband and wife team of Olga Chorens and Tony Alvarez. Included are musical selections of Edith Piaf, all performed in Spanish with the exception of David's own theme song which is done in English and Spanish as a bonus track.
I have never studied Spanish nor do I understand one word on this CD (except for the last track, most in English!). However, I am mysteriously drawn to listen to it over and over. David's voice, so alluring, sensual, and earthy all at once is one-of-a-kind. I know of no one alive today who can sing as Piaf/Garland sang, but David's re-creation of his songs from 1970 thru 1986 are simply amazing!
I thought it would be hard to listen to, but as with anything else that is truly worthwhile, I decided to stay with the CD and give it, at least, the respect the artist deserves by listening a few more times. Obviously, my patience has more than paid off....if only because I can now appreciate the immense talent that he possesses. While sounding unlike any other vocalist that I had previously known David is able to contain more "raw emotion" in one song than most vocalists can emote in an entire CD!
The sounds of the track devoted to Edith Piaf, 'Potpourri Francés' can bring goosebumps. What heart touching music.
This is really a great album to put you in a good mood, as well as for appreciating top of the line musicianship. The Gold Star award for the songs must go to "Te Adoraré", which is just that, and the impossibly infectious "Tengo una Debilidad", (try and play it just once!).
Open-minded fans are in for a treat. The songs are based on different local styles, as the liner notes explain. There's an amazing variety of rhythms - all irresistible. The melodies are catchy and David delivers them with his customary warmth and assurance. David goes back to his Cuban roots (he was born in Cuba, came to the States in the early 1960's) and when you hear him sing in Spanish, you know for sure that he is proud!
You don't need to understand the words in Spanish to enjoy this joyful music, but I am sure it's a real bonus if you do. It is perfect for any day of the year when your body and soul need a little refreshment.
The cover photo by Concetta Jorgensen is divine. David's management Ryner/Alba Entertainment should be buzzing with gigs shortly for this CD will sell the entertainer to the masses!
Despite the language barrier, the emotional content of this artist comes through without doubt. It's a CD that can withstand many, many listenings, and still retain its ability to give pleasure.
I cannot wait until the Spring when I can hopefully review David's CD that will feature his backstage memoirs including anecdotes from his run at Finocchio's in San Francisco, CA along with some rare audio recordings singing on stage at Finocchio's. Many thanks to his friend and Emcee Carroll Wallace who was able to capture those moments from the wings on David's small tape recorder. The third CD David will re-create some of the hits of Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli that he sang on stage, plus some medleys and show tunes from his own International Boy-Chic Act at Finocchio Club. To date David de Alba is the only artist from the world famous Finocchio Club to record and release to the public any material from that club. A must for any collector of female impersonation memorabilia!
Another Great man in our Art, Culture & Entertainment!
That is the Unique David de Alba!
Contact Alba/Ryner Ltd. to order CD(s) at david-heri@earthlink.net David will personally autograph your CD upon request.
Billy Tweedie, Billy's Entertainment World.
I was born a little bit after Olga y Tony delighted Cuba with their songs. Thanks to the work of David de Alba in this tribute to them I have been able to know them and listen to these beautiful songs and these boleros so well interpreted by David de Alba such as: "Mi Triste Condena", "Te Adoraré", "Tengo Una Debilidad" and "Yo Soy Ésa" just to mention a few. David is one of those artists that should never leave this Planet, because they have arrived to make our lives happier and to teach us we have to sing as it says in the theme song on this CD, track # 17th: "Cantemos siempre cantemos, cantemos pues al cantar, se olvidan las desventuras, las amarguras, hay que olvidar." Thank you for your art David!