Lucero
(Universal Republic)
It's easy to take for granted a band that rocks as effortlessly and reliably as Lucero. They can rev up at will: track after track begins with a rousing riff and immediate, fist-pumping adrenaline, and when the band slows down, it's only for a beery chaser after several shots of 90 proof rock ‘n' roll. their sixth album and first for a major has all the ragged charm of its predecessors, with the added oomph of a Stax/Volt style horn section.
This is solid, meat & potatoes rock-or, barbeque & cole slaw, given their Memphis origins-in the same league as the Drive-By Truckers and Marah, or as predecessors like the Replacements and the Stones. "So what if our heroes are the losing kind," Ben Nichols sings in his frayed growl. In typical bar-band fashion, 1372 Overton Park celebrates existential struggles rather than tangible rewards. Their heroes may be losers, but the songs are cathartic winners.
Standout Tracks: "What Are You Willing To Lose," "The Devil and Maggie Chascarillo" STEVE KLINGE
