Giacomo Gates
Luminosity
Doubledove Music
By George W. Harris

Have you ever watched an old classic movie, or on that rare occasion, a new movie, and afterwards think, “They don’t make ‘em like that anymore”? That’s the feeling you’ll get after shaking your head over the vibrancy, depth and feeling of this cd/dvd by singer Giacomo Gates. His voice has that classic “pull up a chair, and listen to my story” sandblasted weariness to it. Gruff in attitude, but smooth to the ears with perfect intonation. Crooning in front of an airtight rhythm section, with beautiful Ben Websterish guest appearances by saxman Bob Kindred, gates wisely avoids the tried and true songbooks, and delves into the were greats, near greats and ingrates of composers. At times using spoken introductions to set the mood, as in “Me, Spelled M-E, Me” Gates revives a style, a time and an attitude that both educates and illuminates. Likewise, his restoration of “PS I Love You” is full of longing, passion and loneliness that even Sinatra only hinted at 50 years ago. Most delightful is his delving into the Rock harbor, bringing up Jimi Hendrix’s “Up From The Skies” and turning it into an unshakably hip lyric. This guy could swing The Carpenters, for Pete’s sake! His “live” dvd which also includes a cute interview is an added bonus. Buy two of these, one for you, and one for your friend who thinks Mike Buble is the greatest thing ever, and set both yourself and him/her straight.