Luis Alas

Rising smooth jazz artist taking Miami and beyond by storm... Page 52 - Miami Talent Magazine

Label: 549735 Records DK

I've heard that trying new things, whether it be food, fashion, relationships, music or just about anything, can be uneasy at first. I believe we've all had that initial feeling of "what if." What if it taste bad? What if it doesn't fit? What if the color doesn't work for me? What if he/she isn't the right person for me? Luis Alas was my "what if."

"Shades of my Soul' is a debut CD for Luis and contains three tracks of his original compositions. I guess you could say he's no stranger to music; he's played saxophone for Anita Baker and George Duke, has toured in over 30 countries and now has decided it's time to go solo. He is probably having his own personal "what if" moment. Not to worry Mr. Alas. From what I'm hearing on this introductory CD, you have defeated your "what if" and so have I.

The titled track, "Shades Of My Soul," opens with a powerful bass line and leads into a smooth groove of "saxiness." I love a saxophonist who's not afraid to hit every note possible.

"Bella's Melody" is oh so sweet. Nothing like two sounds coming together in the most beautiful way. His saxophone is telling a story on this track and the piano is co-signing to every word. I can't say what the story is; this is one you interpret individually. One thing for certain, you will definitely have a different interpretation each time you hear this song. I believe it's called "reflections" when you can see a mirror image of something or some thing. Take a listen to this one and reflect. Beautiful song Mr. Alas, beautiful.

The last track, "Tempes De Couche" had me at hello. I like blues. I like gospel. I like jazz. However, I LOVE when they can all be combined. Did I just say combine gospel and blues? Yeah, I did. Don't blame me. Blame Luis Alas for this outstanding composition. Maybe one day I can ask him about the meaning and title of this track.

So I asked myself, what if this CD isn't for everyone? What if the music doesn't speak to everyone as it did to me? What if you, as a reader, don't listen when I say purchase this new music and add to your collection? See, there's those "what if" moments. My "what if" turned into "grateful" after a few listens. Don't let your "what if" moment take over. Get this CD and be grateful. - Smooth Jazz Magazine

Luis Alas & La Calle Ocho Funk is the next generation and even greater upgrade (if such a thing were possible) from "Shades of My Soul". In my article in July 2016 I wrote the Luis Alas was my "What if" who had removed all fears of a new independent artist. So, when I saw ane new release from this artist and seeing he had collaborated with a whole band, to say I was excited is an understatement.
The first track "Sippin On Jack" was totally unexpected. To begin, the simple but catchy lick sets up for a refreshing smooth jazz verse that goes into an intense chorus. When you think this rollercoaster ride couldn't get any better you then reach a bridge that goes into a super funky retro vamp with the grooviest sax solo. Not to sound too childish, THEN, it leads to a break-down Spanish rap (something about Jack), Lord I wish I had listened more to my high school Spanish class, cause it sounds amazing. To close it off just an amazingly tight hit. This is one of those songs that when it ends you are like "No way, I want more".
The second song "Chocolate" is something totally else. The piano intro is classic yet nothing I have heard before. Then it goes into a Latin syncopation with the smoothest soprano sax that washed over you like a warm bath. This song as every song Luis Alas does builds in intensity and melds different styles and closes leaving you wanting for more. I have listened to both these songs no less than ten times and that was just today, and know I will be listening more.
The production is flawless, and the best part is neither Luis nor the band La Calle Ocho Funk sound like anything in the market today. They mix styles as easily as a baker mixing ingredients, and like a great baker, the final product is better than the sum of its parts.
All I can say is, I want more!
--Althea Turner - Smooth Jazz Magazine