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.