finetune artist: The Subdudes

This four-piece roots rock band originated in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, although they subsequently relocated to Denver, Colorado. Fronted by vocalist/guitarist Tommy Malone with notable stylistic help from John Magnie (keyboards/accordion), Steve Amede (percussion/mandolin) and Johnnie Ray Allen (bass), the Subdudes' eclectic songs fused the best traditions of their hometown's black music influences - blues, funk, Mardi Gras or gospel - with an earthy, punchy delivery. Otherwise the most distinctive attributes to their sound were the rich harmonies and lack of a conventional "drummer". Drawing heavily on the New Orleans/Memphis soul spirit, the band comprised accomplished musicians who had previously backed Roseanne Cash and Joni Mitchell. Their 1989 debut album was completed with the aid of Don Gehman, and introduced strong songs such as "Need Somebody", "Any Cure" and "Got You On His Mind" (as well as traditional cover versions such as "Big Chief"). A cover version of Al Green's "Tired Of Being Alone" graced a second set in 1991, while Glyn Johns was drafted in for their third album, which some critics described as an amalgam of the Neville Brothers and Eagles.

Listen to The Subdudes at Finetune.

Papa Dukie And The Mud People
All The Time In The World
Too Soon To Tell
Social Aid And Pleasure Club
Sugar Pie