ALL THE RIGHT NOTES

Aaron Albano narrates a second-chance romance between former friends who meet after 20 years. Quito Cruz knew Emmett Aoki in high school, before Emmett was a famous movie star. Back then, they were in choir together. Now Quito must convince Emmett to return for a charity concert. Albano makes Quito relatable, capturing his career and relationship frustrations. His roommate, Ujima, provides levity, and Albano's performance transcends their stereotyped character. But the star is Quito's father, for whom the benefit concert is being held. Albano flawlessly delivers his brusque and rapid-fire mix of English and Tagalog and projects the love he feels for his son and his son's students. Singing and musical cues add to the refreshing performance. K.M.P. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2023]