Sylvain Luc: Trio Sud (2002)

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

Recent articles (1,677 total)

Published: May 2, 2002

The acoustic timbres and sensual approach to jazz bring Sylvain Luc’s trio in line with Django Reinhardt. Born in Bayonne, France, Luc comes from a family of traditional Basque musicians. To his natural heritage, the guitarist has added South American and South African tinges, and timeless, straight-ahead colors to his palette. Sud has been together for several years. Their empathy produces a well-structured program with seamless transitions between solo and group voices. Luc delivers a powerful performance, steeped in tradition and yet fresh with creative pleasures. His lyrical melodies alongside the bassist’s ringing walks provide a sensual program. Their feverish “Pata Pata” and tangoish “Les Amants d’un Jour” work best. Pop melodies “Could It Be Magic” and “Brazil” take on a special meaning in the hands of this veteran guitarist and his Trio Sud. Luc’s original “Irdir” smokes with contemporary fire and a funk-driven attitude. Bassist Jafet’s original “Don’t Tell Me” sparks a similar, spontaneous mood. Blues, roots and a creative spirit take over. Be it the music of southern France, southern Spain, South America, South Africa or the south side of Chicago, this trio’s latest release is a winner.

Track Listing: Jordu; Les Amants d'un Jour; Xarmegaria; Out of the Night Came You; Eraldi; La Complainte de la Butte; Pata Pata; Could it be Magic; Peace; Brazil; Irdir; Don't Tell Me; Recuerdos de la Alhambra.

Personnel: Sylvain Luc- guitar; Jean-Marc Jafet- bass; Andr

Record Label: Dreyfus Records
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream