Luis Giraldo’s debut, Day Dream, is a 50-minute journey through the silky joy of vocal jazz with a Latin Flavour. Colombia’s loss is Vancouver’s gain. The record features Chris Sigerson on piano and Rick Kilburn on bass. Although this chronicle contains many standards, Giraldo’s Spanish vocals diversify the album for lovely effect.

Spanish is a most beautiful language. We need not know what the words mean to make up their meanings for us. Musical articulation is joy enough for those whose literacy does not provide for a direct translation of Spanish.

“Great pipes, great playing, and a nice eclectic selection of tunes.”

“This is the best male vocal disc I’ve received in a very long time. My hat is off to you for the song selection, interpretation and trio format (not a lot of clutter to distract from the voice) I’m delighted with this release…”

“What a wonderful Eargasmic Experience listening to your sexilicious Day Dream. You have such a Jassy way aboutcha. KFAI listeners are in for a sweet treat…”

“Luis Giraldo approaches classic songs with respect and with his outstanding voice. His style recalls music from another era, and it’s great to know that artists like him are keeping this style of music and singing alive.”

When pianist, vocalist and producer Luis Giraldo records a CD he hires the best musicians, arrangers, studios and technicians. The proof of this is captured exquisitely in his latest CD “It’s Always You”. If you’re a fan of standards produced in a new and refreshing way, then this CD is for you.

With swinging big band and combo arrangements by Bill Runge and Bill Coon, beautiful ballad arrangements written by Bill Coon, Bill Runge and Jill Townsend for the Babayaga String Quartet, Luis has provided himself with swingin’ and lush backgrounds for his great vocals. Luis’ piano solos and accompaniments are also a plus on many of the tracks especially that feature the Babayaga strings.

“On a Clear Day” and “Secret Love” are outstanding performance by Luis and on “Secret Love” we get to hear to hear a great flugelhorn solo from Vince Mai as well as the great lead trumpet playing of Miguel Angel Valdes along with the talented trombonist Rod Murray.

The alto solo on “Emily” by Bill Runge is fantastic. This CD has so many musical pluses; it would be a shame for you not to add it to your collection. It is just superb in every aspect of Pop, Jazz and standard music production that I defy anyone who is a fan of standards to disagree with me. To see a complete list of the outstanding personnel on the CD and to purchase a copy, visit www.itsalwaysyou.com.

Bobby Hales
President, Vancouver Musicians’ Association