Dito Ba

Erratum: The list of songs stamped on the compact disc does not contain the last two songs as printed. In 1994, Philippine independent Vicor Records released Dito Ba, a compilation of songs recorded by Philippine female singer Kuh Ledesma for the label in the 1980s. The album features middle-of-the-road music performed in a sophisticated manner by Kuh Ledesma, as well as several pop songs. One of the more sophisticated numbers is the excellent title song, "Dito Ba," on which Ledesma imparts much elegance on the opening melody and soars on the majestic chorus. The song was composed by George Canseco, one of the Philippines' most respected songwriters. The album contains several remakes of international tunes, including Elton John's "Your Song" and Barry Manilow's "This One's for You," which Kuh Ledesma recorded on her second album, 1981's Kuh's Magic. When she recorded these songs, she had not yet developed the poise she would exhibit later, beginning with 1982's Just You. "Sana" is a pretty, intimate song that Ledesma approaches with a delicate strength. She gives a sophisticated reading to the enjoyable remake of the Carpenters' "I Won't Last a Day Without You," which features a gentle, bossa nova-flavored arrangement. She sounds strong and confident on the emotive ballad "Out Here on My Own." "Wakas" (Wakas), composed by George Canseco, is another ethnic-tinged ballad on which Kuh Ledesma brings much depth and sophistication. "Sana" (Hope) is a passionate torch song. Certainly, Kuh Ledesma is one of the country's best singers. by David Gonzales