Juana Luna
Ocean Avenue
Juana Luna recently released a brand new album, Ocean Avenue. This release features some exciting textures and unique production aesthetics, giving way to an exciting combination of Latin grooves and bolero elegance. One of the first things you might notice about this record is certainly the personality, charisma, and beauty in Luna’s vocals. She has a sultry and charming tone, which suits the Latin aesthetics of these composition to perfection. Her voice is extremely versatile and she showcases a remarkable ability to adapt her register and dynamics to different situations and atmospheres.
This LP features nine songs, for a little over 30 minutes worth of music. As hinted by the fantastic artwork image, this collection of tracks is almost like a musical voyage, where different ideas and influences collide beautifully in order to create something that’s truly memorable. There is also room for many stunningly talented collaborators, adding a special touch to the various songs on the record. The first track, “Otra Vez,” sounds like a perfect introduction to what could be consider the aesthetic concept of this release. The audience is immediately presented with a sound that feels natural and dynamic, creating a one-of-a-kind contrast between the soothing qualities of Luna’s vocals, and the instrumental mastery of the musicians who joined these fruitful sessions. This is undoubtedly one of the most memorable songs on the album.
The rhythm tracks are colorful and dynamic, making for a truly strong carpet of sounds and textures for the melodies and the singing to unfold. In much the same way, “Y Para Colmo” feels like a true feast of colors and creativity, setting the bar even higher. “Un Amor Cansado” stands out as one of the album’s most memorable vocal performances by Luna, and she deserves all the praise she is getting for her spontaneous and authentic work. The closing number “Veraneio,” is a highly satisfying conclusion for this record, and it definitely stand outs as fitting curtain closer for this masterfully executed LP. I would definitely recommend Ocean Avenue to any fan of Latin music, but also to anyone who enjoys jazz, fusion, and other styles deeply relying on groove and melody as a way to create expressive and outstanding tunes.
