First Dance by Noel Lorica

Wayward Jazz uses the acoustic guitar to wind its way through classic forms of jazz, from the provocative rhythms of Latin jazz while adding the precision of its Asian counterpart to the heartfelt melodies of Smooth Jazz. If you like Peter White or Marc Antoine it's a good bet you'll like Noel Lorica.

This collection of 11 instrumental works are truly songs without words. The guitar adds a voice filled with texture and emotion. Beginning with his award winning song " Back in Five", which introduces us to Noel Lorica's vibrant, harmonious compositions and superb musicianship. As the album continues, it picks up tempo with body swaying precision in "Samba in A." Then it takes on the familiar "My Favorite Things" with a most astonishing acoustic jazz interpretation. The journey further transports you to the cool Brazilian shores with the sultry melody of "El Viento". Only to be brought back to pure innocence with the solo guitar of title song "First Dance".

At this point, most albums lose passion but "First Dance" only begins to further captivate with skill and soul. Each song in this album has unique character and is worthy of its own accolade. Some diversifying with piano melodies and guitar highlights as in "Forgiveness" & " Scent of Cinnamon". Or "Sarong Bangi" which brings in the swing that standard lovers applaud. While Latin jazz fans will clamor for the strong percussions of "Midnight Dreams" & "Last Dance" Wayward style. Finally ending with the smooth flowing beat of "Warm Winds".

This has got to be one of the best new jazz albums of the year and Noel Lorica's remarkable introduction into the heart of the jazz community. You'll sure to enjoy this little Wayward excursion.

Bio/

Manila born Noel Lorica, started his musical adventure, through the urging of his mom, by taking classical piano lessons at an early age. But Noel had other ideas and wanted an acoustic guitar. However, his parents would not get him one because they feared it would interfere with his piano lessons. So secretly he bought his own and began practicing in his closet. He finally convinced his parents that he loved the guitar and was able to practice freely.

Through high school and early college life he was much like other teens and began playing mostly rock, blues and folk music. In hindsight even these styles helped influence his music today. In addition to music he had another love, pets. He began to care for them which inevitably led to his decision to become a veterinarian.

Musically at this time he was exposed to the music of George Benson and the modern jazz scene.He knew right away that he found for what he was looking. The jazz bug hit him and from that time on there was no turning back. Unfortunately, he had to put his musical career on hold to finish a demanding degree in Veterinary Medicine during the 80's. After graduation, the political instability of the times made it hard to apply his degree, there was no demand for vets so he immigrated to the U.S. and started on his professional career in Philadelphia/New York area. There he met his wife, while he was assisting his uncle, who was also a vet. Together they decided to move to West Palm Beach, Florida and established a practice.

In South Florida he found a home again. Latin beats and Jazz echoed around, his musical juices began to surface again and he started doing small gigs and played with a couple of bands. Noel soon joined ASCAP (American Society of Composers and Producers) and started to develop his own style. Through dedication to his craft he has become a premier acoustic guitarist and continues to expand as an artist. "Wayward Jazz" is a perfect melding of Noel's changing influences accented by the acoustic guitar. His debut album "First Dance" is a memoir of this musical journey and an introduction to his inimitable musicianship.

Note: Noel's dedication not only extends to his music, he hasn't forgotten his love for animals and our responsibility to them. It is with this thought in mind that he hopes to raise and donate some of the proceeds from his music to various animal welfare organizations.

Quotes/

You are one of the most talented guitarists that I've worked with! Awesome job down in Orlando!

Mark Eddie, National Comedien, Jan 12, 2005

"A Wonderful Songwriter...Thank you for the opportunity to hear your wonderful songs...yours is truly an outstanding achievement"

Steve Cahill, President of SongWriters Network, Feb 19, 2005

"Impressive composition and superior musicianship...Love the instrumentation...Like the Groove & Feel"

Great American Song Contest, Nov. 23, 2004

Average Customer Review: