Herewith is a review written by Joseph R. Atilano, a young, avid and authoritative music lover whom I requested to cover a concert for me.
Internationally known singer-composer and “Miss Saigon” player Cocoy Laurel dazzled the audience at the Music Museum last Feb. 8. The Valentine-themed event was for the benefit of various charity organizations. Listening to an ensemble of outstanding musical artists, watching them live, made it even more exciting.
Cocoy Laurel, with his powerful voice, natural charm and self-imposed discipline on stage is known for the mastery of his craft and widely-ranging musical style. It was to be one of the greatest individual performances I have witnessed in years. His reputation as an amazing singer and respected musician is well earned.
Cocoy started the evening by performing a beautiful cover of “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” its Valentine theme setting the mood for the night. The next song, showing his Broadway roots, was a masterful rendition of “Some Enchanted Evening” from the classic Broadway musical “South Pacific.” Followed “Night and Day” which has been covered by various artists throughout the years but popularized most by Frank Sinatra. After listening to and observing Cocoy’s singing style, I could see the tremendous energy he put into his songs. From the fullness of his voice, to his body language and interaction with the audience, I could see his dedication to his craft which enabled him to perform at his best. In my opinion, the way he performed would not be any different were he on a Broadway stage or in any other venue. He gives all of himself. He demonstrated the true traits of a professional who has invested years of practice and rigorous discipline in perfecting his craft.
The next songs he interpreted showcased his familiarity with foreign love songs and his ability to sing them fluidly as he did with the French “La Vie En Rose.” He obviously knows the Spanish language and its nuances so well that he sang “Historia de Un Amor” and “Espera” with such intense passion and emotion that the former now belongs to my list of favorite love songs, and had me running to get its English lyrics as soon as I got home. His renditions were so eloquent that they had shades of Placido Domingo’s own. That’s how brilliant they were for me!
Cocoy generously shared the stage with other guest performers. The first of these was Jenine Desiderio, fellow alumna in “Miss Saigon.” As she walked to the stage in her eye-catching form-fitting gown, a collective gasp arose from the audience. Indeed, what a gorgeous body she has — an alluring sight she was to behold! Jenine warmed up the listeners by engaging them in small banter and sharing a few laughs with them. She started off with a medley of Barry Manilow love songs and paid homage to one of our greatest composers, Rey Valera, with his song “Ikaw” — “a song which always makes me cry,” Jenine said. It was so passionate and moving a rendition that, to my mind, it would have made Rey Valera himself proud. What wide vocal range she possesses! One of the highlights of the show came when Cocoy and Jenine performed together “Say You Love Me,” marking the reunion of two “Miss Saigon” alumni. They conveyed the closest harmony, with neither of them out-shining the other. The chemistry was there, making the performance extra special.
The second guest performer was the young and upcoming singer Pow Chavez. She interpreted songs and one of her own compositions, showing considerable potential.
The third performer was Nicole Laurel Asensio, Cocoy’s niece and lead singer of the all-female rock band General Luna. Nicole has her uncle’s distinct traits. She was able to perform Broadway style; the natural charm was there as also a wide-ranging musical style. That was evident, when right after performing a Broadway song, she rendered a classic 60’s rock song “Shades of Gray” by the Monkees. Doubtless, the Laurels are gifted with great music genes and blessed with good looks as well. Nicole did mention that her most supportive uncle encouraged her and gave her the confidence “to open my mouth and sing” and to explore her potential. It’s safe to say that she has a bright future, whether as current lead singer of the General Luna, or eventually, as a performer on Broadway — her dream, she had intimated to the audience. She can be both and that’s a rare feat these days for any musician to accomplish.
The last guest performer was singer-comedienne Nanette Inventor. Her own blend of humor and satire got the audience laughing at her “symbolisms” of the kinds of roses and flowers a girl would receive on Valentine’s Day and the different meanings behind brand chocolates. She sang a few songs, most notably “A Little Bit of Respect” by American icon Aretha Franklin.
The last performance brought together Cocoy and all the guests singing “The Prayer.” This act was appropriate for the benefit concert and a solemn end to “Some Enchanted Evening” of music.
In closing, I would say that it will serve aspiring musicians well to watch Cocoy Laurel’s performances. Cocoy’s performances will give them a glimpse of real professionalism and of how to act in front of an audience. What invaluable education on its own!
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I thoroughly agree with Joseph R. Atilano’s comments on Cocoy Laurel. Indeed, one of life’s real and rare pleasures for me is listening to Cocoy sing. — R.L.O.