Press Comments

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Press Comments -

 “When a smooth jazz version of Purple Rain arrived in my inbox I knew it would be either a brilliant cover of Prince’s iconic track or a cheesy damp squib. Instrumental covers of classic tracks are either one or the other – there is no middle ground. Thankfully, I wasn’t disappointed. At the opening strum of a guitar, closely followed by a single pluck on a bass by way of punctuation, I thought ‘phew’ – Prince won’t be turning in his grave at this one. After a few bars a short crescendo of a shimmering cymbal tells us the track proper is about to kick off, saxophone player Luis Alas blows in the only way he knows how – and the magic of this wonderful track explodes into colour. The melody is predictable of course, the embellishments from all the musicians outstanding, and the track a delight as it grows and develops until the powerful final chord is stuck. The silence is deafening, and anyone will want to hit the replay button to enjoy the experience again and again. ”- Steve Hart, Just Jazz World

"Shades of my Soul' is a debut CD for Luis and contains three tracks of his original compositions. I guess you could say he's no stranger to music; he's played saxophone for Anita Baker and George Duke, has toured in over 30 countries and now has decided it's time to go solo. He is probably having his own personal "what if" moment. Not to worry Mr. Alas. From what I'm hearing on this introductory CD, you have defeated your "what if" and so have I. The titled track, "Shades Of My Soul," opens with a powerful bass line and leads into a smooth groove of "saxiness." I love a saxophonist who's not afraid to hit every note possible. "Bella's Melody" is oh so sweet. Nothing like two sounds coming together in the most beautiful way. His saxophone is telling a story on this track and the piano is co-signing to every word. I can't say what the story is; this is one you interpret individually. One thing for certain, you will definitely have a different interpretation each time you- Althea Turner, Smooth Jazz Magazine

“The Port Charlotte Family Fall Music Festival is proud to announce that Luis Alas will be back as one of our 3 headliners at the 2014 Festival on November 15th, 2014. Luis and his band preformed at the 2013 Festival and enchanted the crowds with their amazing sound and energized stage presence. They were the band most requested to return for this year's lineup. Luis will be headlining along with 2 other national acts to be announced soon. Mark your Calendars now to be in Port Charlotte, Florida on November 15, 2014 for this years event. Gold Circle and VIP tickets will go on sale soon!”- Tracy Hussey, Port Charlotte Fall Music Festival Press Release

“Having heard Luis Alas’ great cover of Grover Washington Jr’s Mr. Magic, I was happy to read that Luis would be performing at a local venue with 3RG. My family and I took a Saturday afternoon out and headed off to the Café 27 in West Broward. While not solely a Jazz and Jazz Funk event, I was more than pleasantly surprised as 3RG hit the right notes and performed a wide selection of genres and material. Luis was superb on Saxophone and managed to infuse a jazzy feel throughout the entire set. The set was three hours and we as a family enjoyed every minute. So… if you get an opportunity to see Luis perform, be it solo or with 3RG, take that chance and you will not be disappointed.”- Ed Weller, Starpoint Radio UK

“I must say that this track comes out in a more powerful expression of you your talent and I can feel the right energy and intensity that you used to achieve it ... my opinion is absolutely amazing ... I give you 5 stars brother ... congrats!”- Angelo Petruzzi, Radio Indie International

"Jazz, Funk, Gospel and a whole lot more - Luis Manuel Alas is a talent that should be heard and seen, plays the Sax like a true blues artist, it's sexy, beautiful and a pleasure to listen to". -- Terry Brown, CU Bands and Fans / Host on WEFT 90.1 Champagne, Ill.

“You're My Everything," Luis your playing in this song, in your style is as erotic & beautiful as the actual one.”- Witchy, Jango Radio

“Luis is a talented veteran of the Miami music scene. Therefore, the choice was obvious who we, Franklin's Wheel, would choose to sub for us during our February 8th show at Gilbert's Resort in Key Largo for a Mardi Gras celebration. Luis's passion for music was evident by his improvisations and knowledge of the music even though we had just one rehearsal prior to the show. Luis is very charismatic, professional, and an amazing player.”- JuanIto, Franklin's Wheel

“I was truly blessed to be a part of an amazing night of JAZZ on November 12th 2011! www.jazzforthekidz.com was incredible! You rocked the house Luis Manuel Alas! You made that sax sing dude! Edrey was a beast on the piano, Eddie was epic on the guitar and Moises & Fernando carried the rhythm on drum and bass! Vocals and horns were smooth and I certainly can't forget the dynamic percussion combination of Cookie and Pocho, they were magnificent! ”- Jame Sheppard, Walk In The Word

“Luis Alas is Smooth saxophone jazz at it's finest. Elegant but impactful.”- Tony T. Solomon, Fullhouse Entertainment Review

“Luis A Jazz (aka Luis Alas) is an amazing artist that fills venues with amazing music along with people. He gives powerful and impacting performances that people will talk about ling after they see him.”- Round Magazine

“Luis Alas is one of those names that is rising to the top quicker than anyone ever expected.”- Mark Musto, Talent Magazine International

“Translation from Spanish: The most romantic saxophonist of the decade. His smooth sound will romance the pants off of anyone.”- Gigi Saenz, WPBR1340AM

“One of the best jazz performers in a long time. He delivers amazing music in a way that is as much for the jazz aficionado as it is for the pop music lover. Luis Alas is destined to be among the ranks of Kenny G and Dave Koz. If you have an opportunity to hear this amazing saxophonist it is worth your time.”- Andrew Earl Singer, Miami Talent Magazine