Lua Hadar - It's About Time (2005)Bellalua Records

Lua Hadar is an American singer, actress and comedienne who gained the Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Performance and graduated from the Neighbourhood Playhouse School of the Theatre and The Dalcroze School of Music in Manhattan.

Her debut solo album is mainly comprised of jazz classics from the 30s to the 90s of the 20th century. It is necessary to mark that most of them are poorly known by the general audience. Those better known are Irving Berlin, Henry Mancini and Cy Coleman, however they can be totally unknown to the young part of the populace. We can wonder whether teenagers have an opportunity of learning about "The Rink" show by Fred Ebb and John Kander or John Bucchino's "Urban Myths" musical, if the commercial media feed us with non-musical pap? Fortunately, there are such artists like Lua whose music can help parents with deliver their children with the real musical art.

On his debut album, Lua sings on all the tracks, and the instrumentation is handled by Jason Martineau (piano), John Wiitala (bass) and David Rokeach (percussion). Without unnecessary longueurs, I'd like to write that I hear a great artistic individuality in Lua's singing. Her voice is noble and distinct, and every single note is sang out heartfelt. Her vocal is not only passionate, but also seductive ("Let's Eat Home"). Most of tracks are sang in English, however her hold of Italian ("In Qualche Parte del Mondo") and French ("Toujours Aimer") is perfect. One of my favourite tracks is a touching tune "It's Time for Roses". Tracks are not the same as for their pace. There are both more vital as well as atmospheric calm-down ones. I am also desired with her astonishing vocal scale and thrilling vibrato. She could be smoothly an opera singer! Since her vocal shows an acting talent, I wish I watched her in a musical. Moreover, her voice is really unique, that's why comparing it to anyone's is hardly possible. If you asked me for a few words describing Lua's voice, I'd say it is romantic, nostalgic, moving and resplendent. It perfectly fits with the chamber jazz performed by extremely competent musicians she is surrounded by.

The production is flawless thanks to Lua Hadar's and Candace Forest's cooperation and mastering by virtuoso of synthesizers, Mike Bemesderfer. Mike is not only known in the jazz world, but also within the confines of rock and metal scene. For instance, Mike is one of the best friends of one of the greatest guitar virtuosos in the world, Jason Becker. Lua's virtuosic singing alongside virtuoso instrumentalists make the ultimate virtuosity. Beautiful woman! Beautiful music!