Reggae star Luciano is not exactly a stranger to Asheville. Xpress interviewed him in this 2005 story. He’s visited since and is now back for a Tuesday, May 6, show at the Grey Eagle.
So what makes Luciano so special? It’s something about the timbre of his vocals, the unabashed note of hope in his lyrics, the earthy pulse to his songs and his peaceful warrior presence. To listen to a Luciano track is to be transported, at least sonically, to the lush island of Jamaica from where he comes and, by the looks of his tour schedule, spends little time these days. The U.K., France, Ireland, Poland, Italy, sure. The Caribbean? Not so much.
Then again, Luciano (born Jepther Washington McClymont) is also known as the Messenjah, a Rastafied moniker nodding to his commitment to spread the word about spiritual salvation, right living and brotherly love.
The musician’s 2006 release, Child of a King includes covers of Cat Stevens’ “Peace Train” and N.C.-native Nina Simone’s “Young Gifted and Black.”
Mikey General, Jah Creation and Deep Roots Sound open the 8 p.m. show. $18 advance, $23 day of show. Info: 232-5800.
—Alli Marshall, A&E reporter
