Datevik Hovanesian is my friend first and former teacher second. I am proud to say just that because all I have learned is from the very best. When I went to see her perform at Dizzy's Club at Lincoln center, it was one if the most perfect performances I have ever seen...period. I have seen Datevik perform numerous times...all so enjoyable and memorable because the passion in her heart translates through every note. On this particular evening at Dizzy's Club, she took perfection to new heights. A summit which has no other place except peak performance. The language is no barrier, whether she chooses to integrate Armenian Folk into Jazz or take American Jazz into the heart of Armenian Soul, it is all the same...perfection! Perfection because it is true to the moment...perfection because it is true to her soul and to the sound that is real good jazz music! While I was sitting in my seat, watching, listening...chills consumed my body many times...and this is truly enjoyable thing! BECAUSE CHILLS ONLY COME IN A MOMENT OF TRUTH! You can't force it, you can't make it happen. It only comes over your body when you are so full of positive energy; your body has no other choice to react! Datevik, you are great...and that in itself is a fact! Sometimes words simply are not enough to describe....Sometimes, it just takes others to come, listen, and see for themselves! That's the only way they will ever be able to relate to the feelings I am tying to convey!

A sensual metamorphosis is one way to define Datevik’s dynamic and reality-altering influence on us in Dizzy’s Club Monday night, September 18, 2006. Shrouded by the world beyond those tall windows, there was only one link between the transcendent reality of Central Park and the New York skyline and the sentient mystery of the enigmatic interior of the Club. An after-work state of mind could only wonder of the voice that would emerge any moment now from behind those doors. Suddenly, a familiar “Datevik Sensory Input” is perceived: an Armenian tone in the language of jazz permeates through flickering candlelight to our table, farthest from the stage but so close to Datevik. At this point, in the words of an anonymous fan of Datevik’s, who was turned away by a full house reservation, “an alteration of consciousness” was complete, the link was established. At the end, the bruises on the palms of my hands acquired during the show did not stop me from applauding even harder, yelling “encore” and begging for more. Thank you for listening, Datevik.

I grew up hearing my older friends and my parents speak of Datevik but only discovered her for myself last September in Triad. This Monday, I had my second encounter with the notes of her vocal skill, subtle delivery of music, and execution giving birth to both form and content simultaneously. Who can resist? You sink into this virtue and before you start questioning worth you realize you are enslaved by its immortal quality. Thank you for being, Datevik.

An unforgettable night of music and song. Datevik was in top form as she lead her fabulous trio of musicians through a spectacular set of American jazz classics and interpretations of Armenian folk songs. The standing room only crowd wouldn't let her leave the stage!!!

We had a fabulous time last night and enjoyed tremendously listening to Datevik. She was fantastic, so much in control and so comfortable. The setting was perfect for jazz and the audience was in tune with the musicians and the mood was jazzy and nice. I would like to congratulate Datevik for a job well done!!!!

Just wanted to tell you how much we enjoyed Datevik's beautiful performance. Unfortunately we had to leave fast after the set was over and did not get a chance to see Datevik in the lobby to congratulate her. Please let her know how much we enjoyed listening to her.
Best wishes, much success and love

A&DE

Though I'm not a music expert Datevik was outstanding, best I’ve ever heard her, live or in recording. As if she has reached a new peak or maturity. I’ve always appreciated her technical ability -- the magic she performs with sounds, almost competing with instrumentation ... but this time, her technique or formal qualities did not supercede or was integrated and beautifully balanced.. Was a pure joy to listen. The trio was superb too, with moments where they became one, what a great collaboration to witness!

I loved her dress, what a gorgeous back she has, and am so glad parted with the more conventional outfits that hid her figure.

The place was beautiful also and the food very good as well. Rarely you can get all these important components in one place!!

Datevik is a true professional in the true meaning of the word. She gives all her soul and heart to her audience; she does not hold back anything. The musicians accompanying her were great too, a joy to listen to, we were transformed to a much better nicer place, thank you Datevik from our heart.

“You must believe in spring” is really a great tune and the performance was spectacular. “Hov arek” is my all-time favorite and Datevik does a great job. Thanks.

My friends and I decided to meet for Datevik’s concert on Monday night 9/18 in New York City. Even though I heard her in Armenia, and listened to her CD nevertheless I was in the mood for jazz and decided to drive from New Jersey, struggle with traffic and parking and have a drink with my friends. It was absolutely worthwhile!! What a great night and what a fantastic show. Dizzy’s Club is superbly located on the 5^th floor of the Time-Warner building. The atmosphere is very cozy and since it was packed with people sited at candlelit tables or standing all around the wall; it all gave even a warmer feel to the place. The stage was beautifully set against the glass wall overlooking west side. The lights were dim so the glittering skyline was enchanting. While sipping the drink and taking in the surroundings we all heard a soothing voice coming from afar and sure enough Datevik ascended slowly on the stage. From then on the audience was electrified with catchy jazz rhythms and wonderful traditional Armenian folksongs adapted for jazz. Hov Arek and Zoorni were particularly nice without being unjust to the entire repertoire which had American tunes as well. The fast beat made the audience clap and scream for more. From the audience’s response it is no surprise that Datevik Hovanesian was asked to perform at Jazz at Lincoln Center – Women in Jazz Festival. Her art of improvisation was complimented by the pianist Bob Albanese and especially Marcello Pellitteri at the drums. The night went by fast. I bumped into more acquaintances that were equally uplifted by the performance. Some were Datevik’s loyal fans having been to many of her performances. They attested that her voice is becoming more and more mature. The majority of the audience was non-Armenian which impressed me on how much they were enjoying the jazzy Armenian tunes. We were feeling so good, we all wanted to continue with another drink and more jazz. But the show was over and at 9pm there was another performer and poor me had to drive back to New Jersey …

Datevik performing has gone beyond being a singer, beyond a voice in a human body. She is an instrument well tuned ready to play, improvise, surprise and being surprised.

Then she sits in front of us and she resumes her human-ness singing a ballad in such an intimate way, resounding the shades of human emotion.

Watching her is exciting, a voice that is crisp and confident voicing her Jazz standards with the virtuosity of a master. Listening to her Armenian songs is breathtaking as she touches that which is universal in all of us.

“Datevik’s mixture of jazz and folk music creates a unique listening experience unlike anything else in this world. She has been an inspiration to others who have followed her footsteps.”