Theo Gonzalves, Novemberly: A Jazz and Poetry Lounge Act (Jeepney Dash Records, 2002)

Recorded live at Jack Adams Hall, San Francisco, California. Theo Gonzalves (piano), Farris Smith (bass), Mark Foglia (drums), Raym Picardo (flute), and Al Robles (vocals).

“Gonzalves’ lush and playful arrangements are indeed reminiscent of the relaxed atmosphere one would find in a piano bar, where one can gather late at night with good friends, ready to sing along with familiar tunes, and call out requests for your favorites. Gonzalves has a sure grasp of traditional jazz phrasing.... I especially enjoyed his romantic interpretation of Brandt & Hayme’s “That’s All.” In a different, er, vein, “‘Cuz u” (“She is a vampyre” mix) felt edgy. Gonzalves’ arrangement takes off, soaring and swooping like a sensual Filipina aswang (the Philippine version of the vampire) in this moody, yet lyrical piece, which is perhaps my favorite on the CD. With flutist Raym Picardo, Gonzalves’ interpretation of the Filipino “Bahay Kubo” was a surprise, lending an urban, postmodern feel to this traditional, folk melody about the humble Filipino nipa hut. One more surprise awaited on the last track: poet/storyteller/activist Al Robles’ spoken poetry accompanied by Gonzalves in a tribute to jazz vocalist Flip Nuñez, a lovely and delicate collaboration, which sounds freshly improvised (whether it was, or not). Robles’ words could just as well describe the music of Theo Gonzalves in this collection aptly entitled, Novemberly: “Fresh, clean and vibrant as the first rising touch of autumn.’”
— International Examiner