Category Archives: CD Watch

New (or not-so-new) CDs from rising or already popular artists that deserve blog recommendation or word-of-mouth spread.

CD Watch: “More Than Just Renditions” by Reuben Laurente

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First off, Happy New Year, my dear readers!!! :-)

One of the perks of hosting a multi-subject blog is that I get to meet people from different walks of life. There was a time when I got the acquaintances of two actresses – one from the theater and another one from the movies. I was also fortunately hooked up with the producer of a relatively popular indie flick who invited me to the special screening of the same. An award-winning Film & TV director also went out of his way to personally thank me for featuring one of his young talents. I can get the same from twitter if I want to, but it feels better knowing that my online thoughts were read first before being sought after. Just like my newly-found friend below…

From The CompanY to Going Solo

Earlier last month, I received a message from Reuben Laurente, one of the former male vocalists of the top singing group The CompanY. Remember the hit songs “Everlasting Love”, “Pakisabi na Lang” and “Muntik na Kitang Minahal”? Well, he takes credit for being part of the same. After leaving the group some years back, he embarked on a solo career which led to his first pop album titled ‘Pop Virtuosity’ (a track of which – “A Single Soul” – won for him an award for Best R&B Recording). However, it is in another genre where he is destined to create a self-actualizing niche, i.e., gospel music. But since the latter is not the most popular in the country, he remained low-profile despite receiving trophies from CMMA (Best Inspirational Album) and Awit Awards.


courtesy of sweetbaby75

Cruise Entertainer

Five solo albums later, the opportunity to work overseas landed on his lap. Up to now, he is one of the Featured Performers aboard the M/V Brilliance of the Seas of Royal Caribbean International, where he entertains guests every night with world-class production numbers. He just recently renewed his contract with the cruise ship and is all set to wow everyone once more with his excellent singing voice wherever the vessel travels to – from Miami to Dubai to Oman to India to Estonia to Russia to Belgium to Scandinavia and the rest of Northern Europe. And just to prove that he is doing really well in this field, Awit Awards awarded him (and fellow singer Anna Fegi) a Special Citation for being Filipino Recording Artists Championing the World of Cruise Entertainment.


Reuben Laurente in one of his performances aboard the RCCL Mariner of the Seas
courtesy of astigarnold

More Than Just Renditions

During breaks from work, Reuben would go back to the Philippines to refresh his singing career. His latest music CD – courtesy of Musikatha Ministries Foundation – was actually launched during the Holidays. Titled “More Than Just Renditions“, it contains beautifully uplifting songs that, according to Philstar.com, “… inspire every listener to feel blessed and “be a blessing” to others.”

In one of our email exchanges, Reuben described the CD, as follows:

“More Than Just Renditions is so special to me as it is an album featuring people in the industry closest to my heart. Composers like Arnel De Pano (Lead Me Lord), Jungee Marcelo (Hataw Na, Sayaweh, and Zia Quizon’s hit song ‘Ako Na Lang’), Soc Villanueva (Bituin Escalante’s Kung Ako na Lang Sana) and Eric Santos’ Kulang ako kung wala ka among others contributed to the collection. It is called “More Than Just Renditions” because the difference is the message, and how the message can be a great source of inspiration. I thank Musikatha for this opportunity of being able to share music through this album.

While he was given the tag of Pop Virtuoso when he started his solo career, Reuben is more happy and fulfilled performing songs that give praise and glory to God. He is not afraid to forge ahead where no other previous mainstream artist dared. He attributes all the blessings in his life to Him. Watch the audio video below of Reuben’s interpretation of “Put Jesus First in Your Life” to hear and feel his heartfelt relationship with the Lord.


courtesy of MomiHEN

For those who want to buy a copy of “More Than Just Renditions”, the CD is available at PCLI/PCBS bookstores, Back To The Bible, OMF, Philippine Bible Society, Lighthouse, House of Praise in SM, Robinsons and Gaisano Malls. Right now, don’t be surprised if you get to see the same in the CD racks of SM record bars. Inspite of the gospel direction, distributors felt that it still contains enough pop appeal to be bought by ordinary consumers.

Let’s support Reuben Laurente and ‘More Than Just Renditions’!

Again, a Blessed and Prosperous 2012 to Everyone! :-)

Zia Quizon: the daughter also rises and how!

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Zia Quizon's star is starting to rise!


courtesy of zzkofficial

Being the daughter of comedian Dolphy and singer/actress/diva Zsa-Zsa Padilla has its benefits, pedigree being the primary reward. And to further discover that singing runs in her bloods, Zia Quizon is all set to take her celebrity status to the forefront with the release of her self-titled first (mini)CD “Zia”.

In the audio video below, Zia delivers her take on her mom’s hit song “Mambobola“


courtesy of zzkofficial

The girl can really sing. I can even add that, in a few years’ time, she will eclipse her famous mom in terms of vocal talent. The voice immediately reminded me of Norah Jones but a bit classier in sound and Adele but more cheery. Her cover verson of my all-time favorite “So Much In Love With You” was enough to melt me away. And her carrier single “Ako Na Lang” is a pop tune that doesn’t compromise too much in favor of commercialism.

Try listening to her own take on “Mambobola” and you will agree that this talent will go far.

You won’t regret buying her CD because all the six songs are ultra-listenable and worth every buck. ;-)

CD Watch: “Now It Starts” miguel escueta

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Last weekend, I dropped by my favorite record store (Odyssey at Alabang Town Center) after the sumptuous birthday lunch of my sister at Cafe Mary Grace. I was in the mood to go OPM that day and browsed through the various local selections. Actually, I already had Miguel Escueta’s “Now It Starts” cd in mind so after picking one out, I happened to see Up Dharma Down’s Bipolar so I ended up buying two. And I was not disappointed to say the least.

But let me focus first on the latest output of the Party Pilipinas rocker, that is, Miguel Escueta. I see him every Sunday singing with the other male vocalistas in the same. But since he only gets to perform a song or two, I’m always left wanting for more. His style stands out among the almost identical R&B sounds of fellow artists like Kris Lawrence, Joshua Desiderio, Gian Magdangal and Jay-R. He is more edgy without losing the pop nuances that keep him well within the parameters of the show’s mainstream audience.

Miguel’s cd is made up of four original compositions and 9 covers. I twitted him that “Now It Starts” is my favorite among the selections, but added that his versions of “Rush Rush” (remember that ditty made popular by ex-American Idol judge Paula Abdul) and “Blue Monday” (that upbeat song of New Order which hit the charts in the early 80s) are just as ear-friendly. You should also check out his fresh take on songs line “Only Hope”, “Love Fool”, and “Mr. Brightside”. Of course, the carrier single – “We Belong Together” (yes, Mariah Carey made this a hit before) – is also worth a space in your iPod. You can listen to and watch the video below…


video courtesy of YouTUbe/miguelescueta

Here’s the press release of MYX Philippines on the cd:

“Organic, real and fresh” – the 3 words used by Miguel Escueta when asked to describe his new full length album “Now It Starts.” The new originals on this album are, according to Escueta, the most “honest and sincere” he has written to date. “Lyrically, I just feel I said it the way it had to be said. No more metaphors or underlying meanings. Just pure honesty.” The album has cover songs as well – his carrier single “We Belong Together” (Mariah Carey), “Rush Rush” (Paula Abdul) and “Love Fool” (The Cardigans), among others. “I’m very proud of how we attacked these covers in arrangement and production. Its always scary to record famous cover songs, but I’m very happy with how we did on this record because I feel that we’ve turned them into our own and are now definitely fun to perform LIVE,” M.E. shares.

This album is actually Escueta’s 2nd full length offering, the last one coming in 2007 with his debut release “I AM M.E.” In 2008, a special deluxe version of the debut album came out and last year the E.P. “Sleeping While The World’s Awake” was released which served as a prelude to the new full-length album that hit stores just last week. The E.P. tracks are, of course, included in this latest release. He is set to launch the album on national TV with his band on Party Pilipinas (GMA7) in the coming weeks. With his carrier single “We Belong Together,” Miguel is all geared up and ready to set the stage and energize audiences.

Being a main stay on the show over the past year, Miguel was able to put together a special video of “Now It Starts” that features almost the whole Party Pilipinas Cast singing a line or two from the song while portraying the feel good vibe of the track and the fun-loving atmosphere of the show! “I’m so grateful that they all agreed to be part of it and help out. The nice thing about this show is that we all support each other. Even the big stars treat us new comers like family. I’m so proud to be part of a winning show that has this familial / supportive type of culture.”

The special video of “Now It Starts” is only available for viewing on the Internet. So If you haven’t seen it yet, just log on to www.miguelescueta.com. The Offical Music Video for his carrier single “We Belong Together” is also available on youtube.com/mcamusic. The new album “Now It Starts” is now for sale in all major record bars nationwide courtesy of MCA Music Inc. and brought to you by VANS, Human, Roadtone Guitars, Southern Musician, Decawake Davao and Heartfire Studios.

If you want to know more about Miguel Escueta, you can visit http://www.miguelescueta.com/. There, you can learn more about his music, his band, his gigs, more photos, downloads, and personal thoughts. You can even send him a message or two. I know that he (or Team ME) tries to personally answer all queries, kudos and the like so give it a go! He is quite an appreciative person.

In the meantime, why don’t you head over to a record store nearest you and buy his cd? Trust me, you won’t regret it. Alternatively, you can download his songs from iTunes via this LINK.

For Smart subscribers, he has several ringback downloads available HERE.

P.S. Don’t buy pirated CDs – ever – and always support our local artists!!! ;-)

CD Watch: Bruno Mars’ debut solo album “doo-wops & hooligans”!

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To say that I love the music of Bruno Mars is an understatement. All his songs are in heavy rotation on my iPod touch and my ears never get tired of listening to his voice, be it day or night. His latest music video for “Just the Way You Are” is a real charmer…


video courtesy of YouTube/ElektraRecords

And if you’re truly a fan, then you should know by now that his much-awaited debut solo album titled “Bruno Mars/doo-wops & hooligans” is out in the market or via iTunes or Amazon.

You can check out his webstore by clicking on the album cover above or this LINK where you can purchase a lot of cool Bruno Mars stuff like…

Now, before you start falling in love with his music, watch this Greetiings video of Bruno Mars where you are likely to up your interest in him even more. Of course, it doesn’t hurt knowing that he is half-Pinoy!


video courtesy of YouTube/ElektraRecords

If you’re interested in catching his fall tour in the US, UK, Germany, Netherlands, Sweden and Denmark, then visit his website where all the dates are listed together with the ticket prices.

What are you waiting for? Let’s all support Bruno mars and buy his debut CD NOW! ;-)

Bruno Mars: did you know that he is half-Pinoy?

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I bet most of you are already familiar with the song “Nothin’ on You” rapped by B.o.B. and sung by Bruno Mars…


video courtesy of YouTube/AtlanticVideos

I also bet that some of you are not aware that Bruno Mars – whose real name is Peter Hernandez – is half-Filipino and half-Puerto Rican. Surprised? Well, he was born and raised in Hawaii to parents Pete and Bernie Hernandez.

The guy has paid his dues in the music biz and is reaping the rewards of his hardwork and patience…..and being associated with the big names in hip-hop/rap genre like B.o.B., Flo Rida, and Travie McCoy…even Adam Levine!

Peter Hernandez aka Bruno Mars

Watch out for more of Bruno Mars in the days and months to come. He is going to be big.


video courtesy of YouTube/FUELEDBYRAMEN

BTW, if you’re familiar with another hit song titled “Billionaire” by Travie McCoy, Bruno Mars is featured. And as if that wasn’t enough, he also released his solo extended EP called “It’s Better If You Don’t Understand” which contains 4 of his earlier solo tracks. Check it out or download via iTunes or Amazon.

Visit his MySpace site. The guy is going places! ;-)

You will love Janelle Monae!

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I recently discovered Janelle Monae during a scan through YouTube and iTunes. I usually check out R&B/Soul artists new to my ears and ended up liking her a lot. Her music cannot be boxed in this category as the songs are healthily laced with punk and ska flavors that give way to an enjoyably unique listening pleasure. You will surely move or jiggle with her. Check out her latest music video of the single “Tightrope” (with Big Boi) and you’ll see what I mean.

Janelle will be releasing her new CD appropriately titled “The Archandroid” on May 18, 2010. If you’d like to pre-order, click this LINK or the image below.

Give Janelle Monae’s music a try. If you’re in for something new and deliriously ear-friendly, you just might get hooked! ;-)

Charice’s “Pyramid” music video

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Our very own Charice will have her debut self-titled US cd released on May 11, 2010 (a day after the national elections in the country) and this early, the carrier single “Pyramid” – which she sings together with Iyaz – is solidly climbing the Billboard dance charts. In fact, this is the reason why she was invited to perform the song’s remixed version at Club 57 – an uppity gay bar in California. And this is also where she invited her friend, American Idol runner-up David Archuleta, to watch and extend support. Of course, you all know what happened next. But it’s all good between the two. The latter claimed that he should have double checked the venue first before lettiing Twitters have a field day questioning his sexuality.

Anyways, here is the music video of “Pyramid”:

By the way, you can start pre-ordering Charice’s album via iTunes or you can click this link. ;-)

Charice’s first international album set for release on May 11, 2010!

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Charice’s first international album made in the U.S. is scheduled for release next month, May 11, 2010 to be exact. This should make her legions of Filipino (and foreign) fans and supporters. Actually, her self-titled cd is already available for pre-order via Amazon for US$12.99. If you’re an eager beaver (just like myself), join the queue so that you’ll be one of the first to listen to her long-awaited US album. FYI, it’s already at #264 in its music chart due to pre-orders.

According to the Amazon website’s product description of the same, “…Charice’s self-titled debut CD includes her single, ‘Pyramid’ featuring labelmate Iyaz (who recently spent four weeks at #1 with his international smash hit, ‘Replay’). The haunting and emotionally charged single ‘Note To God’ was produced by the legendary David Foster and written by Grammy winner, Diane Warren. Charice has performed the song as part of a special Oprah episode marking the finale of ‘Oprah’s Search for the World’s Smartest and Most Talented Kids.’”

Says Charice, “I’m so excited to unveil my first album cover! The album comes out May 11th and I can’t wait for you all to hear it. Finally!!!

;-)

Must-buy CD: Adam Lambert “For Your Entertainment”

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Are you a big fan of Adam Lambert? Yes, that guy with the fantastic vocal range who placed runner-up to Kris Allen in this year’s Americal Idol and who stirred controversy at the recent American Music Awards by locking lips with another guy during the tailend of his production number.

So are you a fan of Adam Lambert? I know I am. I just got hold of his debut CD “For Your Entertainment” via iTunes and can’t help but gush over the line-up. Except for a couple of ditties that do not hook me up instantly, the rest of the songs (16 all in all inclusive of two bonus track downloads from iTunes) are pure ear-candies in a very substantial pop-glam-rock way. My top picks are, of course, “For Your Entertainment”, “Whataya Want From Me?”, “Time for Miracles” and “If I Had You.” By the way, there are superstar cameos by Pink, Lady Gaga, Rivers Cuomo of Weezer, Matthew Bellamy of Muse and Justin Hawkins of The Darkness. What more can you ask for?

This is one explosive cd album. You won’t regret buying it.

Below is an audio clip of “For Your Entertainment”:


video courtesy of YouTube/AdamOfficial

Must-buy CD: Barbra Streisand ‘Love is the Answer’

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Album cover of Barbra Streisand's latest CD

I don’t know with you, guys, but Barbra Streisand is one of the greatest female singers ever. Her crystal-clear voice and diction, excellent vocal control, fabulous stage presence and consistent track record are hard to match, not even by the likes of Whitney Houston (who’s over-the-hill, imo) and Mariah Carey (she can be hit-or-miss) or the latest upstarts in the Hollywood music industry.

The very minute I learned about the release of her latest CD, I just had to rush to Odyssey to get a copy. She never disappoints. The orchestral version of all the cuts are, quite simply, a joy to listen to. The songs may not be a hit among the younger set, but they will surely be lapped up by the rest. I grew up listening to her music. And at her age (and mine), I am continuously amazed with her singing talent.

If you’re young and have doubts, give at least one of her tracks a try. If you’re older and a fan of Barbra, this one is a must-buy cd to add up to your collection. Her version of ‘Smoke Gets in Your Eyes’ is nothing short of phenomenal, just as the 12 other songs in the line-up like ‘Here’s To Life’ and ‘Love Dance.’

Here’s an audio-video of Barbra’s ‘Here’s To Life’:


video courtesy of YouTube/DrLowenstein