I first fell in love with Tony Lucca on March 1st. He opened up for Sara Bareilles when she sang in Champaign, Ill., and had me sold immediately. The nerdy, thick-rimmed glasses-wearing singer baffled me. I just didn’t quite understand how a voice with that much of a blues vibe could come out of him. He’s like a 21st Century Buddy Holly.

Although he has yet to headline his own tour, his album has more than enough great material for him to do just that. “Come Around Again” is a fusion of blues, pop and rock. I’m not quite sure how he does it, but it just…works.

The man has stage presence, as well. Would you look at that? A musician and a performer all in one? Sounds like a winner to me. While on stage, Lucca doesn’t just pop himself on a stool, prop up a leg and strum his guitar. His eyes clench, plead and smile all within a matter of three songs. He dances with his guitar, jokes with the audience and belts notes better than most artists you hear on the radio. I didn’t hear him mess up once while he was on stage, and he delivered a solid opening set. The only complaint I had was that it was too short.

The audience agreed.

Standout songs from the album are Close Enough, Givin’ It All Away, Melancholy Collar, and Pretty Things. Fans of Jon McLaughlin, James Morrison, Matt Wertz and Dave Barnes should be sure to check him out by heading to his website, or clicking here.

Feel free to leave your thoughts about Lucca below!