Singer channels Elvis at McKechnie Field

Martin Lutero says he is a gospel singer.

He even brought a CD of his music to Saturday's national anthem tryouts at McKechnie Field.

Whether the Brazilian native makes the cut, the 51-year-old definitely left an impression on the audience and judges.

His interpretative version of "Our Star-Spangled Banner" evoked comparisons -- distant comparisons -- to the King of Rock and Roll.

"Is this guy doing Elvis?" asked Bradenton Police Lt. Darrell Akemon, who was on hand to watch daughter Mary audition, but was amused by Lutero's delivery.

Dan Wolfert, the new GM for the Bradenton Marauders FSL ballclub, made the same connection while judging the event.

"Elvis?" he wrote on his notes.

"If he had started shaking his hips ... " Wolfert said later, grinning.

Lutero's gestures were limited to his hands and arms, but even without the hip wiggle or leg shake, he was definitely channeling Elvis.

Or trying.

"I was raised by Americans in my country and the first singer I fell in love with was Elvis Presley," he said. "I followed his style, I have this baritone voice. I've done this many times."

Can't wait to see if it will play at McKechnie Field.