The couple that sings together

Isay Alvarez and Robert Seña have been blessed with an adorable family comprised of three talented kids: Emilio, Roberto Jericho and Maria.

These days, however, the showbiz couple is greatly excited about the birth of their new "baby" – Isay and Robert’s first album showcasing all-Filipino love songs. The patriotic fervor comes as no surprise to the two, having been hailed as ambassadors of music and goodwill during their frequent singing engagements abroad.

"You never really get to appreciate your own unique heritage until you see yourself through the eyes of a totally different culture," Isay explains. "Or until you realize that no matter how long you uproot yourself from your native soil, there’s always a part of you that calls out and yearns to assert its distinct identity and color."

"That‘s what these Filipino love songs mean to us," she adds. "It’s something to be proud of, to nurture and preserve for our children’s children."

Enthusiasts of old Pinoy classics, Isay and Robert go for the immortal black-and-white films from the ’50s and ’60s as well as the music from the same bygone era. "There‘s something about those songs and movies that’s magical and timeless," Robert affirms. "You just can’t help but smile and feel good."

Songs like Kung Ako’y Mag-Aasawa and Ikaw Ang Mahal Ko have already become quintessential traditional Pinoy folk ditties. For Robert and Isay, keeping the nostalgic vibe is just as important as nailing the songs’ inherent sense of swing.

Keeping true to their musical vision, the duo tapped the creative energies of musical arranger and long-time colleague Mel Villena and sound engineer Dominic Benedicto. "With their experience in OPM, we believe Mel and Dominic can grasp that sound in our heads," Robert points out. "Gerard Salonga also did the orchestra arrangement for Habang Buhay while Babsie Molina did the vocal arrangement."

Robert and Isay get by with a little help from their friends, too. Jenine Desiderio, a close friend from their Miss Saigon days, contributed the original composition Habang Buhay. "It’s a beautiful kundiman-like song with lyrics that speak of a great love that’s so timeless," Isay gushes. "It‘s a fitting wedding song."

Salbakuta is also featured in a light-hearted remix version of Kung Ako’y Mag-Aasawa.

Other cuts are Kahit Na Magtiis, Minamahal Sinasamba, Ang Mahalin Ka, Ang Daigdig Ko’y Ikaw and Kahit Saan, Kahit Kailan.

"Kahit Saan was from the musical Magsimula Ka!, where Robert and I first met," Isay recalls.

In the album launch next month, the couple will feature some of the songs in the coming edition of their Love You, Hate You, Love You cabaret-type show. Now on its third series, the show will be held at Teatrino (Promenade, Greenhills, San Juan) starting Sept. 7 and will showcase more songs and new characters.

Love You, Hate You, Love You is sponsored by PLDT, Chocquick, Splash Corp., Teatrino, Air 21, Facial Care Center, Facial Care for Men, MacGraphics Carranz, The Coffee Experience, Manila Bulletin, Joey 92.3, 105.1 Crossover, DZAS 702 and DZFE 98.7.

For details, call 0906-8613000 or 721-6726.