Great sounds, ranging from jazz to country and everything in between
author: Linda & Daryl Hollis
Daria Matacia is the "angel" of Angel & Aces, a Washington, D.C., area dance band. A versatile performer, she sings everything from popular ballads to country and light rock to jazz and bossa nova. Even more impressive, Daria is an accomplished pianist and her electronic keyboard gives the group a full and varied sound. She's also a composer, kicking off the CD with "Working in the Library Blues," about her days as a music student.
On this CD the Aces include her longtime bass guitarist James Cooke ("Cookie") and drummer John McGregor ("Johnny Mac"), with guest appearances by Dan Leonard on guitar and Don Francisco on flute.
Nicknamed for her angelic soprano, Daria's vocals really soar on the ballads "The Rose," "At Last," "Summertime," "Unchained Melody," and "Moon River." The group does a lovely version of Sergio Mendes' "So Many Stars," and instrumentals are featured on the Average White Band's "Cut the Cake" and the final number, "Mm-Mm Good." Daria channels Patsy Cline on the medley "Crazy/Walkin' After Midmight."
Angel & Aces display their jazzy sides on "My Heart Belongs to Daddy, "Moondance," "Ain't No Sunshine, and "In the Mood." Recorded live at Georgetown's famed Blues Alley in July 2003, the group's selections were in keeping with the sultry weather outside and in tune with the awesome acoustics inside the club. BUY THIS CD!!!
Read more...