[New Release] LUCERO
“Among the Ghosts’’
Label: Liberator Music
Genre: Alternative/Indie
Lucero has put out great records before, but for whatever reason - geography, confusion over genre, a lack of recognition from the folks who decide what gets heard - the Memphis-based quintet has never attained the level of stardom it probably deserves.
With “Among the Ghosts,’’ its ninth studio album, a fine under-the-radar rock ‘n’ roll band keeps getting better.
Gone are the piano and guitar licks that occasionally sounded too much like Bruce Springsteen, though he remains an obvious influence.
In their place are gritty meditations on homesickness, poignant storytelling built around a Civil War soldier’s letter home, and honest, heartfelt love songs.
The band’s playing rises to the challenge posed by such intimate lyrics. Rick Steff’s piano is less derivative, a more subtle complement to the gritty guitar playing that still drives the band’s sound.
The effect is more sophisticated without losing the rawness that always gave Lucero its edge - which might just make this the band’s finest album yet.
AP
with the Korea JoongAng Daily
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