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When you say "adult" and "rock 'n' roll" most people think "oxymoron," or at least think you're a moron. But, let's face it, don't you go to the record store or read the record reviews in hopes of finding something you can relate to? How often does that happen with new music? Well, here's something for you, not exactly brand new, but a new U.S. release for what many of us think is the hottest band in the Big Easy, The Continental Drifters!
In essence a bunch of singer-songwriter types (with very little of the wimpoid trappings that go with those words), the band in its present form is composed of Susan Cowsill (yes, the little tambourine girl grown up) on vocals, acoustic guitars and a variety of other instruments; Vicki Peterson (former Bangle guitarist) on guitars and vocals; Peter Holsapple (fifth R.E.M.er and former db) on a huge variety of keys, strings and vocals; Robert Mache (from New Orleans) on guitars, mandolin and more; and a rock solid rhythm section composed of CDrifters founder Mark Walton on bass and Russ Broussard on drums.
The Drifters sing and play like what they are, veteran musicians who have seen a lot but still can find a child-like mystery in everyday things. Their album is very impressive.
Many of the tunes have the loose, loping feel that made stars of The Band, but, by and large, the Drifters sing about things most older baby boomers can relate to: relationships, break-ups, weather, regrets, childhood, child abuse, traveling, dancing, singing and many other facets of life. A huge range of instruments and singers give this CD, and the CDrifters' shows, a variety-show aspect! There are many, outstanding cuts. In fact, they are nearly all outstaanding! Thus, I have left out song-by-song analyses and haven't named faves. You will get off on this CD if you love good music, good singing, good playing and a classic folk-rock vibe. The CD doesn't have the intensity of the group's shows, but if you don't cry the first time you hear "Daddy Just Wants It To Rain, " or "Heart, Home," you're more jaded than you need to be.
Check their Web site (www.continentaldrifters.com), check your local CD emporium, or check 'em out at the Howlin' Wolf on Tuesday nights in the Big Easy. They have just returned from a road trip, taking their show on the road to promote the album, so catch 'em at home while you can!
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