Echoes, (Kevin Le Gendre), December 2006
(4 1/2 stars) On this quite sublime debut Loueke can stake his claim as a real original.
Album Description
ObliqSound is proud to present LIONEL LOUEKE's new album VIRGIN FOREST. Originally from Benin, Africa, Lionel has been hailed by the international press as the rising star of the jazz guitar since his last album GILFEMA came out in 2005 on ObliqSound. Whilst his playing in HERBIE HANCOCK's group has also attracted considerable acclaim. Accompanied by a stellar cast including HERBIE HANCOCK, GREGOIRE MARET and CYRO BAPTISTA, Lionel and his trio transcend the jazz genre adding a captivating touch of African music in the mix. A breezy album blessed by Lionel's dazzling guitar playing and gentle voice, "Virgin Forest" is set to become a landmark album within the jazz and world music scenes.
Recorded 2005-6. Produced by Robert Sadin.
Personnel: Lionel Loueke - Vocals, guitar, percussion, Massimo Biolcati - Bass, Ferenc Nemeth - Drums, Herbie Hancock - Piano, (9, 17), Cyro Baptista - Percussion, Gretchen Parlato - Vocals, Gregoire Maret - Harmonica (16), West African percussion ensemble led by the Raimi Brothers and the Tessi Brothers.