When I first wrote about Clara Luciani, over three years ago, she was an upcoming French singer. By now, we may conclude she delivered on the promise. For those in doubt: just listen to her new album Coeur (‘heart’). It’s a record that was born out of a profound love for 1960s and ‘70s music, but in the meantime firmly planted in the 2020s. That’s French DJ Breakbot’s contribution to the project. He adds a modern touch to Luciani’s retro influences.

When the album came out mid-June, I already recommended album cut Respire Encore (‘breathe again’). A great example of this nu-disco sound. It features a prominent bass and funky guitar riffs, as well as a beautiful string arrangement, played by no less than 18 violinists. Backing vocals are provided by Clara’s older sister Lea Luciani, who was the subject of earlier single Ma Soeur.

Lyrically, Respire Encore is an ode to post-lockdown life. “I wrote this song to convince myself that happier days were coming“, the artist explains. At Carte Blanche Music, we’d like to bring those happier days a little bit closer.

Now the triumphant track has been released as Luciani’s official new single, we’ve chosen Respire Encore as our new Wildcard. This means it’ll feature here prominently for a whole week! Even better: it’s the 1.900^th Wildcard since I started choosing one on a weekly basis. Easy Lover by Philip Bailey & Phil Collins was the first one, back in 1985!

Recommended as well:
Clara Luciani – Ma Soeur
Clara Luciani – La Grenade

Follow Clara Luciani on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Spotify

In the Wildcards 2021 playlist you’ll find all of this year’s Carte Blanche Music Wildcards so far.

Werner Schlosser

I’m a music industry watcher and journalist. Worked at a CD club, a record store chain and was editor in chief of an entertainment trade magazine. Have been in the radio business since 1987, producing and presenting shows. Was music director of several stations. Also, I developed the European Border Breakers Chart, Music Moves Europe Talent Chart and ESNS Chart. CEO of Werner Bros. tekst | uitleg.