Esperanza

"Esperanza," bassist/vocalist/composer Esperanza Spalding's debut on Heads Up International, is set for worldwide release on May 20, 2008. Armed with uncanny instrumental chops, a siren voice that spans three languages, and composing and arranging skills that weave together the best elements of the old-school with the progressive, this 23-year-old has crafted a debut album that takes a completely fresh and refreshing approach to jazz by borrowing from the rich traditions of soul, pop, world music and so much more.

Esperanza is joined in the studio by a crew of A-list session players, including flamenco guitar virtuoso Niño Josele, percussionist Jamey Haddad, drummer Horacio "El Negro" Hernández, saxophonist Donald Harrison and several other seasoned talents - all of whom collectively serve as further evidence of the kind of creative energy and magnetism that she radiates.
Customer Review: Can't get it out of my head
I'm no musician and cetainly no jazz expert. I just love beautiful, interesting, melodious music. This album took my breath away. Every time that I listen to it, I hear something new that catches my ear. The album seems to be packed with talent, but that combination of voice and bass is something else altogether.
Customer Review: Pure Talent
Ms Spalding is an incredible talent. She has been blessed with both an amazing musical ability and is already an accomplished college instructor. Take advantage of the opportunity to see her perform if she happens into your area.

Two-time professional champion of ABC's hit television show "Dancing With The Stars," Julianne Hough has recently begun focusing on yet another talent - singing.

On May 20, Hough released her self-titled debut album of country music. In the spirit of something her most infamous critics Carrie Anne, Len and Bruno (the judges from the show that made her famous) might say, Hough's debut is very good but there is always some room for improvement.

The best track on the album is probably the first single, "That Song In My Head," which has all the qualities of a fun and catchy tune. Two other songs that really seem to stand out are "My Hallelujah Song" and "About Life" for their sweet vocals and notable themes respectively.

The majority of the tracks fall into what a typical music fan might consider the average to slightly above average category. But, the songs "You, You, You" and "Jimmy Ray McGee" are two examples works that seem either overdone or lacking originality and show the existence of the aforementioned "room for improvement".

Overall, Hough's is something of a breath of fresh air. In an industry that glorifies promiscuity and materialism, she is a complete change of pace. Her debut album gives the music world a refreshing taste of a wholesome and classic country style. And, if she keeps working at it, she could make quite a name for herself as a musician similar to how she has already done so with her skills on the dance floor.

I'd recommend this record to anyone who is more than just a casual country music fan with a passing interest.

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