SoundPress.net Feature Article: The Subdudes on Parade for New Orleans! (Concert Review)

Subdudes on Parade for New Orleans:
Recent Mardi Gras Benefit Show Helps Support
Gulf Coast YMCA Centers
A SoundPress.net Feature Article by Rich and Laura Lynch

The Subdudes originated in New Orleans in 1987 at what was supposed to be a one-time gig at Tipitina's. That one impromtu acoustic show evolved into 5 studio albums and years of extensive touring. The Subdudes are well respected for their stripped down sound and multi-part harmonies. Their music is a savory blend of blues, gospel, Louisiana soul and rock.

In 1996, The Subdudes disbanded but they reunited again in 2002. Since then The Subdudes have been touring and recording non-stop. They recently released Behind the Levee an emotionally charged tribute to Louisiana and its unique musical culture, which is so much a part of The Subdudes identity. The new album is flavored with more R&B than past records but their trademark harmonies are still a key ingredient.

The Subdudes Kicked-Off Mardi Gras in New Jersey!

Currently there are five Dudes including principal songwriters Tommy Malone (acoustic & electric guitars) and John Magnie (organs, keys & accordion). Tim Cook, who plays bass and percussion, is also an esteemed songwriter/producer in his own right. Jimmy Messa, who has an impressive professional resume, switches from guitars to bass in the live setting. Rounding out the musical team is Steve Amedee a drummer who has taken the tambourine to new heights. In lieu of a traditional drum kit, Steve uses hand held drums and the tambourine to create chunky rhythms. Amedee also plays mandolin.

The Subdudes played a benefit concert at the Carl Pfeifer Performing Arts Center in Wyckoff, New Jersey on February 18, 2006. Part of the proceeds from the show went to help Gulf Coast region YMCAs which were devasted by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The Carl Pfeifer Performing Arts Center is a family friendly venue with good acoustics. Walking through the front doors of the Y were tables with green, gold and purple beads for the fans, to help add a festive Mardi Gras flair as the celebration began on this day with parades in the Big Easy. Another spot was set up for collecting additional donations for New Orleans. Special guest Shannon McNally opened the show.

The Subdudes took the stage around nine and were warmly received by the capacity crowd. They opened the show with subtle rhythms ushered in by the bass, eggs and tambourine. Quickly the instrumentation built momentum before returning to a slower pace and then kicking it up a notch before toning it down for an animated accordion solo. The band got off to a strong start that set the standard for the rest of the evening.

This next song was introduced as an old one that came out on vinyl (circa 1989). It was an energetic tune with Steve pounding the tambourine with a stick in addition to the usual rattling thus contributing to the savory groove that the rest of The Subdudes were cooking. Vocals were varied between leads and signature harmonies. Song three was also from the vinyl era featuring a heavy dose of bayou flavoring and a gumbo of sounds, yet each instrument remained distinct and dramatic.

The Subdudes mentioned that Behind the Levee was recorded prior to Katrina, before performing "Social Aid & Pleasure Club" a new track with an up-tempo, smoky blues feel. Tommy's acoustic was traded in for an electric Gibson to meld with heavy bass lines, multi-part harmonies and snazzy drum and tambourine beats. Playing another new tune, The Subdudes slowed the pace down for a soulful song with rich textures and dreamy tones but still room for a smokin' solo by Malone.

The band continued to play a spirited set of their unique bayou brand of blues, funk, rock and soul. They are apt at mixing various genres in arrangements that are exuberant and interesting. Their rendition of "All The Time In The World" expanded upon the studio version with simmering instrumentation including a cowbell along with additional vocal parts. "One Word (Peace)" off the new record traveled down the R&B road with flowing keys and excellent harmonies. Afterwards, they made a comment about being too distant from the audience and four of the five Subdudes left the stage to mix it up wit hthe fans and hang out in the center of the crowd. They tapped out rhythms on the floor as all four sang around the accordion, guitar and tambourine in a memorable moment that was a prime example of their popular "stripped down" style. About half way through the song bass lines could be heard from the stage as the audience clapped along.

Returning to the front, The Subdudes rocked out with soaring guitar leads, some drums and a sizzling jam. They closed the set with a new song about hippies entitled "Papa Dukie & The Mud People". The crowd clapped along to this energized rendition complete with lead and responding vocals.

Returning for their encore, the band was greeted by exuberant fans shouting out various song titles. Four of the five band mates gathered around one mike singing along as Tommy played his acoustic upright with a capo. The Subdudes cooked up two more songs with fluctuating tempos, varied harmonies and southern flavorings to end the concert on a high note finishing the night with their standard set-closer, "Bye Bye".

Shannon McNally is originally from New York but moved to New Orleans a few years ago soaking up the region and incorporating bayou sound into her music. McNally is a soulful singer, penning songs inspired by outlaws and visionaries. She describes some of her music as "North American Ghost Music".

Shannon McNally and accompanying keyboardist Dave took the stage around eight. McNally has a commanding stage presence and a husky voice but she is still able to hit the sweet, high notes. Her singing style was a near blend Stevie Nicks and Bonnie Raitt with a country singer's aura. Shannon and Dave crafted a full sound between them and Shannon's storytelling is striking. She is an expressive singer and Dave's piano parts enhanced the drama of her songs.

Shannon and Dave played a impressive nine song set that was well received by the attentive crowd. Shannon thanked the audience for their attention, mentioning that she has been playing a lot of noisy, rock clubs. After her stellar set, Shannon met with fans and autographed CDs before the main event.

The concert on the eve of Mardi Gras week was southern fried fun and soul at its best for a very worthy cause! To help the Y's that were impacted by Hurricane Katrina donations can be sent to YMCA of the USA - Attn: Hurricane Relief Fund, 101 N. Wacker Drive, 14th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60606.

Opening act Shannon McNally Captivated the Audience with Her 9-Song Set!

Related Links: For more information on The Subdudes and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links -- Subdudes Official Site | "Behind the Levee" CD | ShannonMcNally.com | RGiantMusic.com | WyckoffYMCA.org

(Originally Published on February 20, 2006)

Please add a link to SOUNDPRESS.NET today!

For music industry promotion and advertising information:
PLEASE CONTACT US AT -- PHONE: 973.556.5400|E-MAIL

SOUNDPRESS.NET DISCLAIMER: We are not responsible for any third party transactions made through the companies and vendors linked on this site. Please contact those businesses directly regarding sales and service.