Sometime last year, Arizona Cardinals linebacker and musician Lu' lit up the scene with his R&B/Afropop-infused single "Nerves,” and now he is back with a 6-track EP titled Gold Linen. The project marks a new chapter in Lu’s growing music career as he steps into the limelight on his own and is ready to show the world his experiences as a multi-faceted artist. In his own words, “music isn’t just something you hear; it’s something you feel.” he is determined to let his fans feel his music through the lyrics, catchy melodies and undeniable grooves. The EP centers around self-expression, personal empowerment and self-love even in the face of detractors and naysayers.
Opening up with “More,” Lu' raises the ante from the jump with a love jam that blends Afrobeats with lush R&B textures and solid drum grooves. Here, Lu’ confesses his love for that special someone in multiple languages ranging from English and Yoruba to Nigerian pidgin English. This is followed by the plucky, Spanish guitar-driven “Lady,” which comprises a rich soundscape with layered atmospheric textures over which Lu’ keeps it simple with a repetitive and memorable hook and engaging storytelling that explores blossoming love and exquisite taste for the high life. The fun continues on the expressive and multi-language driven “Si Mi,” where he displays his Congolese/Nigerian roots and delivers the goods with a mix of French, Yoruba, and pidgin English. To be honest, it feels like multiple people singing, which makes it quite enjoyable and dynamic, as Lu’ keeps switching it up and in a good way too. The final track, “Alright,” is reflective and sees Lu’ in sober spirits. Looking at life experiences, loss and the gratitude that comes with the pain of dealing wth death, he takes audiences on an emotional ride filled with heartfelt and touching lyrics. Other notable tracks include the mellow “BAD”, where Lu’ delivers verses in French and Engish and “Lela,” with its electrifying guitar licks and interpolation of that one Shaggy song.
Overall, Gold Linen serves as a snapshot of Lu’s progression as an artist. The majority of the songs are love-themed and uplifting, while his songwriting is expressive due to his knack for fusing multiple languages. There is a lot for audiences to rock with depending on their moods.
Jesse Lu aka Lu' is a Phoenix, Arizona-based professional athlete and talented musician hailing from Ottawa, Ontario with Congolese roots.
Stream Gold Linen here.
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