For over a decade, Ray Lugo has crisscrossed the globe bringing his punky afro grooves to countless audiences as leader and singer of New York powerhouse Kokolo, a mainstay on the global music scene through their extensive discography and consistent touring.

In 2012, the ever-prolific Lugo debuts his first solo album, “We Walk Around Like This”, welcoming the sounds of Bahia, Lagos, Kingston, San Juan, and Harlem all under one umbrella and echoing Lugo’s eclectic tastes.

Ray´s open-minded approach to music is amply reflected throughout “We Walk Around Like This”, from the caipirinha-soaked rhythms of “I Dream of Bahia” to the muscular dub of “Common Sense Is Self Defense”, the heartfelt beauty of “Deeper”, the jumping afrobeat of “Super Saoco” or the B-Boy swagger of “We Walk Around Like This”. Another highlight of the album are remixes by French prodigy Simbad and Jazz & Milk´s very own Dusty. A dynamic part of Gilles Peterson´s ´Brownswood´ imprint, London based producer Simbad is recognized for his progressive yet soulful productions. His take on "Love Me Good" displays the significant role the studio veteran has played in the UK’s music and club scene over the years. Jazz & Milk label head Dusty gets support from his soulmate, Bartellow – currently one of Munich’s most talented producers and musicians. The pair deftly retain the melodic soulfulness of "I Dream Of Bahia" yet refresh it with bass-heavy and synth driven instrumentation, thus bringing the Brazilian charm back to modern, electronic dancefloors.

Featuring a range of international talents ranging from Brazilian newcomer Elani and Shanghai’s Shelby Charnoff to India’s Kavin Paulraj as well as special appearances by percussionist Fernando Velez from Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings, guitarist Andy Averbuch from The Joe Bataan Band, singer Roxie Ray from Australia’s Dojo Cuts, trumpeter John Turner from Pato Banton and trombonist Chris Morrow of Kokolo and Lou Reed fame, “We Walk Around Like This” is a skillfully crafted album that aims to bring, in the words of Lugo, “many sounds to many people”. Mission accomplished.