Damien Lamar

Damien Lamar presents a class act showcasing his singer/songwriter talent performing an eclectic fusion of musical genres, such as, soul, jazz, R&B, blues, et al. He comes off with an engaging personable style and an unwaveringly clear voice which he wraps around his audience like a loving hug, singing songs of love and respect.

Last Saturday night, I caught Damien’s act at the downtown supper club, Boomtown, located across from Hemming Plaza at 140 West Monroe St. This restaurant is an upscale music and performance art emporium has created a new dimension of sophistication to the downtown center.

For his Boomtown showcase, Damien was joined by an all-star ensemble including his musical collaborator, Nick Jones on guitar, Ezekiel Haynes on keyboards, Mike Norwood on bass, Erick Ievins on cello, Sean D Andrews on drums, and Tracy Morris on tenor saxophone.

The Saturday night concert was a benefit for the WriteSight Foundation which is a funding organization that provides needy children with eye exams, eye glasses, and school supplies. This year alone, the charity has distributed over $17,000 dollars to children for eye needs and school supplies.

Damien’s confident and laidback stage persona is reminiscent of the late great Lou Rawls, but his original songs are intimate portraits of his philosophy of giving and promoting love for his fellow human beings. He projects warmth and feeling for his audience which gets him many accolades after his show, with a line of people waiting to give him a hug and encouragement. For the past ten years, Damian has been performing professionally and has recently got serious about moving up in the biz with his new CD Convinced, and his expanded concerts.

This type of soul singer show harkens back to an era when people got dressed up and went out to supper clubs enjoying performers and big band music. I truly believe that even in today’s hectic world, people need to get out with their wives for a special evening of fine food and high quality entertainment. It injects romance back into a longtime relationship.

Indeed, Damien’s show is both retro and modern, in that, his arrangements are more modern R&B than old school, but his presentation is upscale as opposed to the other extreme, hip-hop. Not that there is anything wrong with hip-hop, per se. It is an exciting medium of expression. However, it’s aimed at a certain demographic. More mature audiences appreciate more upscale entertainment performed by Damien and his band in a relaxing atmosphere.

Starting his singing career steeped in gospel, Damien moved into secular music by fusing his gospel roots into his new songs with wide-ranging moods and tones. Damien brings his heart and soul into his music, and is never afraid to reveal personal issues through his music.

This creative honesty connects him directly to his audience, who can relate to his struggles. His songs soothe the beast within by showing that harmony with one’s feelings can be felt as a group. His voice, striking good looks, and suave persona are a dynamite combination that is rare in today’s world. Damien’s songwriting talent and smooth as silk voice will take him far. I can envision Damien landing a house gig at a Las Vegas casino lounge with his six piece band. Meanwhile watch for him at the regions class A rooms such as Boomtown, The Twisted Martini, and The Jacksonville Landing Stage. - Rick Grant (Entertaining U Magazine)