Calgary Vocalist Deanne Matley and Los Angeles guitarist Larry Koonse proudly announce the release of their debut CD, “Can’t Help Falling”, a Jazz album containing original arrangements of classic jazz standards in an intimate vocal/guitar duo setting. “Can’t Help Falling” is a direct expression of their deep connection and the respect they have for each other as musicians.

Influenced by giant jazz duo Ella Fitzgerald and Joe Pass, Deanne and Larry captivate with this beautiful collection of jazz standards. Deanne’s sensual voice is stripped naked, with only the translucent veil of Larry’s haunting guitar for cover. They play harmoniously, changing balance, transforming into each other then separating. Like yin and yang they move back and forth and then together again, cascading into a pure and simple musical delight.

From the gut wrenching “That Lucky Old Sun” to the smoky, soulful “Autumn Leaves,” this may be Matley’s best recording to date. “A voice like no other”, says Koonse, adding, “Deanne Matley has it all, unerring pitch, great timing, beautiful phrasing, and perhaps most importantly, an ability to wrap herself inside a lyric and deliver a compelling story. She is a world class artist that is destined for great things.”

“This album was created on a whim…kismet” says Matley. Born and raised in Calgary, Deanne Matley is a staple on the Calgary jazz and blues circuit. As the vocalist for one of the top Big Bands in Canada, she is in high demand allowing her to perform regularly year round. This is her fourth album.

Larry Koonse is a modern master of the jazz guitar. From being the first recipient of the USC Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies to multiple Grammy nominations, he has toured and recorded extensively with Mel Torme, Billy Childs, John Patitucci, Luciana Souza, Rod Stewart, Linda Ronstadt, Cleo Laine, Natalie Cole and many others. His solo guitar work was featured in “Crazy”, a film about the great guitarist Hank Garland.

Deanne’s debut CD, Stealin’ Blue, is a tasteful mix of Jazz, and Pop favorites performed live in an intimate vocal/piano duo setting.

Deanne, a native Calgarian, has captured the essence of her riveting performances on this album which features twelve distinctive tracks. Known for her emotional, sultry delivery and a pure tone that envelopes the listener in a warm embrace, Deanne’s sensibilities lie in her simple yet elegant style. Her approach is straight from the heart, a heart that is warm, vulnerable and genuine. Artists such as Frank Sinatra, Sue Raney, Coldplay, Hawksley Workman, Rufus Wainwright, Bette Midler and many others act as influences.

The powerful energy and immediacy she receives from performing before a live audience fuels her drive as a musician. Her debut album is that much more bold, electric with feeling, and honest because of her choice to record Stealin’ Blue live. Stealin’ Blue is an invitation to a quiet moment of magic.

“I opted for songs with melodies that challenged my emotional boundaries and pushed me to explore the soul.” A quote from Deanne describing the musical mix on the album infused with Jazz, Torch, Blues, Pop and Gospel styles.

There are many standout tracks on this recording, one of which is “My Funny Valentine”. It is given an almost intensely cinematic reading. Deanne starts off with a blank vocal tone that has rather intense overtones for the verse. At the chorus, a more suave, sophisticated voice is heard as a counterpoint to the opening character. The piano solo serves as a bridge, a resting place between this vocal conversation. The song ends; a screaming whisper.

Another is the Cyndi Lauper ballad “True Colors”. Drawing on his extensive classical and jazz training, this version starts with an extended piano solo inspired by many musical influences. Deanne’s interpretation of the melody is vulnerable, passionate and real; emphasizing the song’s message of living authentically. The song’s unique ending has become a trademark part of this duo’s repertoire.

Stealin’ Blue is an album of ballads. It is for lovers. It is for intimate moments. It is for listening.