Lafayette, LA's Bluerunners were formed in 1987, but burst into the public limelight in 1991 with the release of their first album, which garnered favorable comparisons with Los Lobos. Fourteen years later, after several personnel changes, the Zydeco-based band show they are still hot with the release of their fifth album, "Honey Slides," the first on their own label.

The album sneaks up on you as "Working Man's Zydeco" fades up and shows that these snap beans certainly are not salty. Although this is straight Zydeco, the band often use Zydeco or Cajun as the backdrop for their own roots music which incorporates blues, rock, and country influences as well. Whilst this may sound a rather eclectic mix, it is unique, and very compelling. The second track, "The Gravedigger," provides a case in point, with its more rock-based groove, despite the accordion and rub-board being very much in evidence. An excellent reading of Canray Fontenot's "Coulee Rodair" makes the case for the Cajun influence, before "Ghost of a Girl" weighs in for the more countrified side of things.

Pick of the tracks is probably "Mardi Gras Jig" which is a cracking dance tune that will have you shuffling around in your seat, if it fails to get you on your feet. Also, do not be fooled by the "Jig" part of the song title, this is not your typical Irish type of jig. The only downside is that it lasts less than a couple of minutes. There are plenty more memorable moments elsewhere, too, before "Big Head" brings things to a nicely relaxed close.

The music on "Honey Slides" will most obviously appeal to those who like Zydeco and Cajun music. Those who like Los Lobos' approach will also find much to admire. More generally anyone with an appreciation of American roots music should find the Bluerunners very much to their taste. "Honey Slides" is 50-plus minutes of first rate entertainment.

www.bluerunners.com

"This review is copyright © by the writer and Blues On Stage: www.mnblues.com, all rights reserved. Copy, duplication or download prohibited without permission." Copyright reuse notice: If you would like to reprint or use this review please include the above copyright notice, contained within the quotation marks, PLUS this statement: "Used with permission." Then send an email to Ray at: mnblues@aol.com indicating how you are using the review or the website page address it will be appearing on. Thanks!

Buy this CD NOW:
Your purchase through the Amazon.com links at the end of each review, or by simply clicking on the Amazon banner (below) to order this or many other products from Amazon, helps to support this website as well as the featured blues artist.

More CDs:

Click on this banner to get you new low percent credit card:

---

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT! You can help support this blues website by making a contribution (click on the banner below for details). Or mail a donation to: Ray Stiles % Blues On Stage, PO Box 582983, Mpls, MN 55458. Thanks!

---

Web Hosting & Design: CLICK HERE for Web Design SPECIAL, get your own website for just $75. The most affordable web hosting and design services available. Click Here to find out how you can host your current site at Blues On Stage, or how I can help you design your own website!

If you would like your CD reviewed, please send TWO (2) copies of your CD to:

Blues On Stage
PO Box 582983
Minneapolis, MN 55458-2983

E-mail Ray Stiles with any questions.