The Subdudes - Lucky (1991)

The Subdudes produce a soulful musical blend combining the rhythmic feel of their native New Orleans, gospel-inflected vocals, and deeply personal lyrics. Ironically, the band has no one playing the standard drum set, but percussionist Steve Amedee is amazing with only a tambourine and a modified drumstick. On Lucky, their second release, the band is at its finest, with all the elements coming together to produce a unique sound, highlighted by Tommy Malone's heartfelt lead vocals and understated guitar work, punctuated with John Magnie's inventive keyboard and accordion playing. The original compositions are outstanding, especially "Push and Shove," "Deepest Thoughts," and the intensely personal "Laughing at Birds." The whimsical "Wide Load" features the Rebirth Brass Band blaring at full throttle, while "I Can't Wait" is a fine piece of funk, built on a bluesy guitar riff straight out of Captain Beefheart's playbook. The band also delivers a tasty cover of Al Green's "Tired of Being Alone." Lucky is quite appealing and immensely listenable from start to finish. Nonetheless, the Subdudes were one of those bands that built a steadily growing following on the strength of their live performances, delivered consistently strong albums, but never found the key to break through to the commercial success their music deserved.