| Long before seductive crooners Luther Vandross and Maxwell, and radio's
"Quiet Storm," there was a man whose music set souls on fire, a catalyst to
young love and desire. Jon Lucien, who will appear at Blues Alley August 3
and 4, has done it again with his new CD "Lucien Romantico." The new
recording, the first offering from his own label Sugar Apple Music, brings to
fans his romantic visions of tropical breezes, moonlight strolls and "aural
seduction."
"From the depth of my soul, I reach out to the universe, in search of magical
melodies, to romance your ultimate desires. Come with me as we travel." This
is the written message listeners are greeted with as they are welcomed on his
musical journey.
Three decades since the release of his 1970 RCA debut "I Am Now," his latest
gives listeners some new tunes and some of the good old Lucien sound many
have grown to love since his rhythmic "Creole Lady" and seductive "Dindi"
days. His beautiful spirit of song introduced on "Lucien Romantico" captures
the attention of listeners with tunes such as "Tell Me You Love," best
described as smooth, beautiful and silky.
Complete with Latin-style guitar playing by Oscar Castro-Neves, "Sempre
Maria" is a moving Spanish/English serenade tempered by Lucien's unique style
of scatting that makes listeners want to just close their eyes and fall in
love. "How 'Bout Tonight" is an up-tempo beat that builds into a moving
crescendo. While Lucien plays acoustic guitar, he draws on the musical
prowess of others throughout the album, resulting in a unique blend of jazz,
Latin, and samba rhythms. "Tell Me You Love Me" is a scintillating ballad
reminiscent of his 1973 Grammy-nominated "Lady Love" smash from the "Rashida"
album.
Even today when he performs Lucien fanbase continues to grow with new fans
joining their parents in enjoying his musical genius. And for many born in
the 70s Lucien's music was synonymous with the coming of age, many finding
sanctuary in his tunes, even Lucien himself.
Lucien's 17-year daughter was one of those who perished in TWA Flight 800 in
1996. He took sanctuary in his music creating "Endless is Love. "My daughter
doesn't want me sitting around being unhappy. I look at her and we
communicate. We make music. The music is a special force," he said.
Now with his own label Lucien may find more freedom in the musical force he
possesses, and find others who share his musical vision. "This opens up
entirely a new avenue for more. Along with my many unreleased compositions, I
can also expose and introduce new talents of quality. I'm very excited about
what lies ahead."
For updates on Lucien's performances and label, visit his web site at
www.jonlucien.com. For information about his Blues Alley performance call
202-337-4141.
Maishah English is journalist based in Maryland. To comment on this or any
other story email maishah@metroconnection.info.
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