Mon David (pronounced moan da-Vid) has released his fourth US release, "D+N+A, a duet with brilliant Pianist, Composer and Arranger Josh Nelson. Mon David is a classic example of what a Jazz Vocalist should be; original style with a unique approach to lyrics and a world class ability to scat sing. David left a lucrative and successful career in the Philippines and moved his family to the US in 2007. He felt that he had to make this move to pursue a career as a Jazz Vocalist. Since moving to California he has been a popular mainstay one the Southern California music scene.
David's new release DNA is a duo project featuring Josh Nelson and it's a truly creative and imaginative musical accomplishment. David provides a refreshing new approach to some wonderful standards while still capturing the essence that has kept these songs popular for years. Josh Nelson's piano performance is always inventive and his improvisations are always new and yet comfortable and accessible. He never falls to impress! David's primary instrument is his voice but he also plays Guitar, Piano and Drums. David says, "for me, the human voice is the primary instrument for expressing the emotional depth of a song, but the Piano is a close second. That's why I wanted to work with Josh. His solo performances are terrific, but when he plays with a singer or other instrumentalists, his music has an almost symphonic quality".
DNA is an album of music created by two young, but seasoned master musicians! Bravo to David and Nelson for their musical achievements publishing this album. I have attached two "YouTubes" for your listening pleasure. The first cut is a vocal tribute to Monk and Bird, a medley of "Straight No Chaser" and "Billie's Bounce", with a great arrangement and feel. David wrote additional Filipino lyric and joined them because they are two of his favorite pieces. The second is a newer song composed by one of the hardest working singer, composer and arranger, the talented Mark Winkler. The song is "I Chose the Moon". I was not familiar with this tune but it's a beauty!
PLAYERS:
Mon David- Vocals
Josh Nelson- Piano, Keyboards
PLAYLIST:
1. Did I Ever Really Live
2. You Must Believe in Spring
3. Lush Life
4. Devil May Care
5. Here's to Life
6. In Praise of Bill Evans
7. If You Never come To Me/Skylark
8. Straight No Chaser/Billie's Bounce
9. Imagine
10. Blame It On My Youth
11. I Chose The Moon
12. Always And Forever
"Straight No Chaser"
"I chose the Moon"
