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.

I have a friend who always says that she wishes we would just bust out in random song and dance throughout the day. She believes that there would be less war, and definitely more entertainment in our everyday lives. I have to admit, I think I agree with her. Even though real life isn't all song and dance, we can pretend for limited amounts of time that it is reality. We can do this by watching musicals and Broadway shows. These offer great escapes from the sometimes dull path that we call life. But with so many of these to choose from, it may be hard to find the right one for your current mood. Here are just a few choices that you have, in detail.

Cats: This is one of the most famous Broadway productions. Even more famous then the name "Cats" is the producer, Andrew Lloyd Weber, who has produced many successful pieces. It is actually based off of T.S. Eliot's poems; you guessed it, involving cats. If you are a feline-lover, this is the perfect show for you. Just think; nothing but cats!

Wicked: I've heard lots of great things about this production. It is based off the book by Gregory Maguire called, "Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West". This is a story from the perspectives of the witches of the Land of Oz. As a viewer, you will get to see a friendship, rivalry, jealousy, and opposing viewpoints and beliefs-all with great music.

Hairspray: This is one of my personal favorites. This is set in the 1960s and is full of racial tension. This has a great message and is very entertaining. Also, the main character is not the typical "popular" girl. She becomes popular because of her personality, rather than her looks. The characters learn that the personality is more important than what is on the outside.

Phantom of the Opera: Again, another of my all-time favorites. This production is based off of Gaston Leroux's novel with the same title. This musical offers everything from love, adventure, suspense, friendship, danger, and entertainment-with, of course, the most fabulous costumes and makeup.

Rent: This is considered a rock musical. It is brazen and a little in your face-- but in a good way. This musical follows a group of young artists and musicians living in New York. Their everyday life is a struggle for survival. The many things they deal with are AIDS, poverty, love, friendship, betrayal, and sacrifice. This is definitely a heart-wrenching production-but beautifully created and presented.

These are just a few; there are so many more available to experience. The variety of shows offers something for everyone. Also, for family outings there are a few Disney productions that are great for every age group. Before you purchase your Broadway tickets, make sure that you find the right one for you and others in your group-you wouldn't want to see something inappropriate for children. This way, the Broadway musical experience can be a remarkable memory that the whole family can remember with smiles.

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