Julian Velard
Nitetime (2003)

Review by: Alexander Washburn
Date: 8/15/03

I told Julian Velard over email one day that I found myself with a song of his in my head as I came off the 2 train one day. He seemed a little surprised by my statement – but the humble Mr. Velard just doesn’t know how amazingly talented he is.

Nitetime kicks off with a nice groove, as Velard’s deep voice, full of authority makes its presence felt. As Velard grapples if “he’ll ever come to terms with my love of the nitetime” a sweet trumpet by Jeff Pierce adds another element to this graceful song. "Yeah, Yeah, Yeah (Work to Do)" is a fun, upbeat number that has an excellent violin played by Roland Satterwhite. "Jack" and "Can’t Stand for This" are older songs from the Velard catalog but listening to these intelligent tracks it is clear that Julian Velard has always been a talented songwriter – for these songs perfectly stand the test of time. "Musta Been Somebody Else" is the highlight of this record as Velard’s lyrics give this song a smoky bar feel. His gifts as a piano player also take center stage on this track as well. As Velard wails: “Hold on to your love, that’s what got you here,” he is both making a statement and giving a warning. It’s a clever little writing trick and once goes to show that Velard has real talent, and is not just another bushy-haired pretty face. "All Right for You" is another standout on this record and once again Velard on piano shines.

Julian Velard has been gathering quite a buzz with the Village Voice and LA Times all preaching his virtues. With these media heavyweights in his corner and the quality and depth of his songs, I am certain that Julian Velard one day will be a superstar. His songs are perfect and passionate with intelligent lyrics that paint vivid pictures of human nature and behavior. This kind of talent won’t be playing at Spazzia for long. His talents lie in his booming vocals that captivate you from the start, his ability to change styles and forms and his musical ear, which grows and grows. Velard surrounds himself with quality musicians and his live shows have now introduced a vibe player to the mix. He is also a nice guy, which is hard to find in this business, with his head on straight and not solely pointed toward the sky. Julian Velard is a singer/songwriter whose time has come. I’m just honored that I can say, I knew him when...

Julian Velard
Make Me Feel (2003)

Review by: Michael Walls
Date: 6/15/04

Listening to the music of Julian Velard is only topped by experiencing him Live. The music of Velard creates an environment that makes you want to stand at a bar sipping martinis with a room full of hip friends and strangers. As Velard alternates between sitting and standing behind his keyboard, pounding out a funky jazz groove – while his “A Band” fills in the sound with horns and strings behind him – you might feel compelled to throw out a wave in his direction. And Velard, should he catch your wave, will easily smile and wave right back. Make Me Feel is as close to experiencing Julian Velard Live, without inviting him over to your house. All you need is the martinis and some friends.