Ruben Tagalog Dahil Sa Iyo

MIKE VELARDE JR., the composer of the famous "Dahil sa Iyo" and other songs in this album, belongs to the distinguished group of Filipino composers who, outside of the old Philippine musical clans, has been greatly influenced by 20th century Occidental music. He expresses his imagination and artistry freely, highly characterized by a singleness of purpose, as envisaged in the many lovable melodies that he has written, which is not to astonish his listeners but rather to make them understand and appreciate the true meaning of his tone poems. Velarde has a brilliant reputation as a composer and arranger. His flair in these pursuits is based on his long experience as one of the country's most popular orchestra leaders before the war and as freelance musical director in post-war Philippine movies. And his forte, as you will readily discover upon listening to "Dahil sa Iyo" which tops the list of this engaging collection of all-time Philippine favorites, is simplicity of rendition and arrangement. An interesting highlight of this fine and attractive album, on the other hand, is the dramatic billing of two of the nations top balladeers --- Ruben Tagalog and Diomedes Maturan. These master portrayers of Philippine ballads will hold you spellbound as they interpret, one after the other, in an alternating wave of rhythms and songs, the program of familiar favorites with uncomplicated warmth and glow.