“. . . on Like Someone in Love, Laalo intends to remind the listener of Chet Baker’s romantic singing, and Laalo has included some of the songs, such as “I Fall in Love Too Easily”, from Baker’s albums. To recall Baker’s trumpet interludes, Laalo has recruited Kevin Turcotte, who plays with lyrical appeal and a linear clarity of solo construction, often muted. Even though Baker touched countless listeners with the ineffable magnetism of his recordings, Laalo’s voice is more trained, as he holds the pitch on the long tones with firm assurance and stylishness. “The Night We Called It a Day” is understated and haunting, but Laalo’s version proves how well he can shape notes, creating interest rather than losing it by sustaining the notes beyond expected lengths. Laalo does have fine voice, and one can understand his affinity for Baker’s memorable singing of standards. Don’t misunderstand: Not all of Laalo’s songs are thoughtful ballads. “My Heart Stood Still” attains a song-and-dance-man feel with its pounce on the first notes of the phrases, setting up the occasion for pianist Miles Black’s Nat Cole-influenced block-chord solo. Still, Laalo’s more interesting tracks are those in ruminative tribute to Baker. For instance, on “Forgetful”, the most effective song on Like Someone in Love, Laalo effectively draws attention not only to the meaning of the words of the elongated notes at the ends of the phrases, but also to the sustained sonority of their vowels and consonants. A romantic singer of ballads, Doug Laalo attracts listeners with his feeling for the songs he includes. Nonetheless, and perhaps respectfully, he leaves the inexplicable enchantment arising from the songs to Chet Baker.”
Bill Donaldson, Cadence Jazz magazine c. 2007.