Ted Lucas – S.T.

A cult classic originally released as a private pressing in 1975 that became a costly collector’s item over the years, and is now available to the masses thanks to the Yoga Records reissue. Ted Lucas was a master guitarist with sitar skills to boot, having studied with Ravi Shankar. Lucas was a fixture of the Detroit music scene of the 60’s and 70’s, playing in psych-rock bands. He was also the go-to Motown session musician for exotic string needs, e.g. balalaika, sitar, 12-string guitar – until Motown relocated to Los Angeles in the early 70’s. This intimate, introspective masterpiece is the result of post-Motown Ted Lucas taking time out for himself to finally work on solo material rather than just keep supporting other artists’ visions. He self-released the album on his own label, and then moved on to relative obscurity, passing away young with a sour taste from the music industry, without the commercial success he deserved. If only he could now see original copies of his record going for upwards of $300. This is a great Sunday morning record to start your day on a beautiful note. It’s cozy, mellow, charming, and warm – folk music elevated with a cosmic spirit. His guitar mastery shines, and the soft, velvet timbre of his voice makes every song feel like a lullaby. Find a sun spot to curl up in and bask in the comfort of his voice.

– Lauren Fay Levy

Recommended – A5 Baby Where You Are, A2 It’s So Easy (When You Know What You’re Doing), A3 Now That I Know, A6 It Is So Nice To Get Stoned