This 10-track collection is quite something; Luna O’cero has cooked up a fantastically diverse and eclectic traditional-inspired sound that manages to balance its moments of majestic grandeur and delicate introspection marvelously. With its sweeping strings, Latin-induced traditional elements, and striking percussive bravado, this album draws a listener in and rewards them with a true ‘feel-good’ listening experience.
And it will not get lost on a listener how Luna O’cero has gotten better—as someone who is well traveled and sufficiently educated on matters related to music, this album is so much better than his previous two, the 2008 debut album “Homenaje a los Grandes” and the 2018 remastered “Tiene Sabor.”
With this collection, which was recorded in 2022 in the Dominican Republic with top musicians and voices from the country, O’cero comes harder with tracks that ooze charisma, raw talent and deserved acclaim.
I just could not bring myself to stop dancing to “She’s a Lady”—you just have to appreciate the care and attention that went into making those beats. They are very warm and inviting, and the vocal presentation by Luna leaves nothing to be desired.
She’s a Lady” truly is a brilliantly authentic rendition of a spicy Latin cover song that makes you want to get up and dance the night away in a state of music-inspired euphoria. O’cero really does a fine job of interpreting the American and British authors’ original melodic ideas, infusing the track with a sense of unbridled energy. This captivating performance gives listeners an experience filled with both liveliness and charisma.
“Delilah” has been performed with an understated melancholy; you can feel the raw emotions in Luna’s tenderly nourished vocals that lusciously slice through the striking melodies like a hot knife through butter.
In “Quando, Quando, Quando”, Luna offers a delightfully charming performance, and as the track progresses, he lures the listener in and rewards them with a showpiece from that dazzling instrumental performance that is brimming with awe-inspiring showmanship and virtuosity.
While the track “Quando, Quando, Quando” contains many strong elements, the sense of energy it has is particularly strong. Latin music is easily one of the most danceable styles of music there is, and it has this undeniable power to make people want to move, and this tune is no exception.
Performing with his earworming vocals that are equal parts cognac and velvet, O’cero packs a powerful punch with the relatable lyrics in “You Will Never Find Another Love Like Mine.”
The energetic quality of “Sweet Dreams Are Made of This” is made possible by the wonderfully engaging performances that fill the song from head to toe. From the strong percussive elements that underlay the track to the fantastic guitar flourishes, let’s not forget the highly expressive piano playing by Armando Olivero’s son, Willig. This tune is truly special and exuberant!
In “Too Young”, Luna draws the listener in and puts them in a dream-like state with his ethereal delivery and that exceptionally well-realized vocal performance.
There is a great deal of sonic elegance, pizzazz, and flair throughout this album which was arranged, produced, and directed by award-winning and internationally acclaimed Armando Olivero. Armando’s son Willig played piano on all the tracks and was also responsible for recording engineering on five tracks. The other five were engineered by German Lorenzo. Father and son producers, Armando and Willig, showcase their strong collaboration and talent throughout the album.
Latin Grammy winner Juan R. Tavares Sanchez did the mixing. From this lineup, you can already see how this was a joint effort that made it possible for such an impressive body of work that is timeless and addicting.
“Come n’ Try Latin” is already streaming on all popular platforms, and I know for a fact that this is one of Luna O’cero’s most accomplished collections, he couldn’t wait for those outside of his sphere of influence to finally hear!
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