Ronald Douglas, a celebrated name in the world of vocal jazz, teams up with pianist Rob Van Bavel to present "From the Heart," a deeply intimate and captivating album set to release on May 9, 2025, under Zennez Records. This live recording, captured in the acoustic embrace of Studio 2, is a testament to the profound connection between voice, piano, and space, creating an atmosphere that is both personal and universal.
"From the Heart" is a journey through a carefully curated selection of jazz standards and original compositions, each track a testament to the artists' deeply felt understanding of the repertoire. The album opens with a vibrant "Brazil Medley," setting the stage for a diverse exploration of jazz styles. Standout tracks like "You Are There," "Two For The Road - Dreamsville," and "What's It Gonna Be (To Begin)" showcase Douglas' velvety vocals and Van Bavel's masterful piano playing, while "Billy Strayhorn Medley" pays homage to the legendary composer.
The album's title track, "From the Heart," is a poignant ballad that encapsulates the essence of the entire recording. It's a deeply personal offering, with Douglas' vocals resonating with raw emotion and Van Bavel's piano providing a delicate, supportive backdrop. The album concludes with "Not Like This," a hauntingly beautiful piece that lingers in the mind long after the final note has faded.
With a duration of 42 minutes, "From the Heart" is a concise yet powerful exploration of jazz vocal and piano duets. It's an album that invites the listener to step into the intimate space of Studio 2, to experience the magic that happens when two master musicians come together to create something truly special. Whether you're a longtime fan of Ronald Douglas or a newcomer to his work, "From the Heart" is an album that promises to captivate and enchant.
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