What does sultry Filipina “jazzipino” vocalist Charmaine Clamor have in common with Talking Heads’ David Byrne and Brit-hop producer Fatboy Slim? Impossibly, Imelda Marcos. Say wha? It seems David Byrne and Fatboy Slim have collaborated on an eclectic new album that tells the story of the famous former Philippines First Lady through song.
"Jazzipino" chanteuse Charmaine Clamor. Isn't she gorgeous? Photo by Hydee Abrahan, Studio 1003.
Charmaine joins some of the biggest names in indie rock and pop, like St. Vincent, Nelly McKay, Tori Amos, Martha Wainwright and even Natalie Merchant on “Here Lies Love,” released by Nonesuch Records. Each song on the double CD is sung by a different vocalist and reveals the close relationship between Imelda Marcos (whose storied shoe collection would put Carrie Bradshaw to shame) and her childhood yaya Estrella Cumpas.
David Byrne and Fatboy Slim produced "Here Lies Love," an eclectic disco-pop opera about Imelda Marcos, from Nonesuch Records.
Charmaine — who has the distinction of being the only AA and pinay on the album — sings “Walk Like a Woman,” a chin-raising, self-confidence lifting tune on the disco-pop opera, which she plans to perform live on April 10 at Los Angeles’ Catalina Bar & Grill.
I know it sounds improbable. I mean, did you read what I wrote here? Jazzipino + David Byrne + Fatboy Slim + disco-pop opera — all about Imelda Marcos. But it’s actually kinda catchy in a disco-ey-poppy way. Listen here and make up your own mind. Tell us what you think of the album. Even better, if you go to Charmaine’s show in L.A., give us the scoop by commenting here.
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