Photo by: Danny Clinch/ Lava Records

Louque, pronounced “Luke,” is an up and coming name in the music industry.

Dustan Louque’s debut album, So Long, according to Lava Records, is “bar none, one of the sultriest albums of 2004.” The release date is May 25.

The band hails from New Orleans and Brooklyn, blending homemade beats and Cajun influences to create an “obscure” but “artistic-type of record,” says Lava Records.

Lava Records remarks, “If you like old-skool reggae and dub-you will dig Louque, if you despise what’s on the radio-you will dig Louque.”

At first hearing, So Long seems monotonous and lacking a certain richness or soul.

Louque commented that his own CD “takes a little while to digest.” But after further listening, So Long begins to grow on the listener.

The distinct beats appear and will make you want to dance. The influences of lounge jazz, reggae, Cajun, rock and hip-hop become evident throughout the CD.

Newlafaya Records has named Louque’s blend of music as “Faya” or “the mixture of dub, dancehall, electronic and alternative music.”

Whatever it is, So Long is new, exciting, and very different. Comparisons to Coldplay or a Jack Johnson-Dave Matthews mix are inaccurate; Louque has clearly a new genre all of his own.

Louque’s nine-track album is a combination of stories, love ballads and piano melodies.

His lyrics are not innovative however, and might leave you wishing for something more profound. Nevertheless, Louque might capture your broken heart or move you to sway with his catchy beat.