Luis Mojica – Wholesome
Luis Mojica – Wholesome
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/luismojicamusic/
Different. Unique. Unconventional. Random. Funny.
These were the initial thoughts I had while listening to Luis Mojica’s debut album Wholesome which released late in July. The album details Luis’ journey from city living to mountain living. Utilizing many instruments like piano, cello, saxophone, flute–to name a few, combined with Luis’ vocal styling creates a unique modern twist on a Baroque sound. Accompanied by Melora Creager of Rasputina, and drummer Brian Viglione, Luis harmonizes his voice with their experienced playing skills. Each song on the album is very different and not like the rest. The instrumentals on each track are strong and memorable. Unfortunately I can not say the same for Luis and his lyrics. Luis has a beautiful voice that harmonizes well and fits the Baroque style perfectly however the album as a whole was definitely lacking.
I had never heard of Luis prior to this album so upon first listen I actually found the lyrics of his songs humorous and I found it difficult to take him seriously. The lyrics were not relatable, hard to follow, and nonsensical. More often than not it seemed like he was just singing words – they had no meaning or reason.
I hate to say it so harshly but my favorite parts of the album were the moments it was purely instrumental, like in the intro to Lady Bug. That song starts off beautifully but the moment the lyrics began I just couldn’t take the song seriously anymore. The overuse of humming, oohs and ahhs gave the album a cheesy feel rather than spiritual, which is what I believe he was attempting. At times hisattempt at spiritual styled chants made me uncomfortable and the lyrics were a little too honest – I don’t typically listen to songs about people touching themselves naked while in water as showcased in Oh, The Beauty!
I would definitely like to hear more from Luis perhaps with more structured lyrics and purpose. This album was just a little too all over the place for me to enjoy. One minute his songs are about being one with nature and becoming a mountain dwellerand then he’s insulting a woman in Bridgette Song and then back to nature talk.
Luis has talent and there is a lot of potential but I just don’t find this album to be a showcase of that.
This may very well just be my personal preference and some may really enjoy Luis’ take on nature and the more Baroque, old fashioned styled music he provides. The instrumentals on this album alone makes it worth a listen. However, this album just wasn’t to my liking.
https://www.facebook.com/luismojicamusic/
Peter James