Riley and Mamou Playboys spice it up

Band claimed to be the best of its kind in the world

Tonight you have the opportunity to hear a band some have called the best Cajun band in the world now: Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys. The quintet plays a combination of instruments, ranging from accordion to electric guitar, expressing the culture of their southern Louisiana roots while skillfully incorporating the contemporary sound of rock.

The band formed in southern Louisiana in 1988 with an interest in recording and performing traditional Cajun music. Even the name "The Mamou Playboys" harkens back to earlier times; it was the name of a traditional Cajun ensemble in the 1950s and '60s. And although they still play within this tradition, the band has begun to experiment with new styles and arrangements.

The band's music is a fun combination of Cajun, Zydeco, and Swamp Pop. Zydeco was originated in rural Southern Louisiana by Creoles of African decent in the 1600's. The music and culture of Zydeco proved to be a way to retain their heritage while adapting to a new environment and language, part African, part French.

One might be a little wary when first approaching this music, fearing that it could be too stereotypical in its "down home country" feel. But, in actuality, the band combines a great blend of just about every kind of major musical movement of the 20th century, while staying true to their heritage. Their latest album, Bayou Ruler, can attest to this: there are seven songs sung in French, the language of at least a quarter million Cajuns and Creoles here in the United States; there is the strong presence of a blues-guitar solo played by Paul "Lil' Buck" Sengal in the instrumental track five, "Kind Zydeco," and the subtle blending with the electric guitar of rock today.

This is a new direction for The Playboys; the past six albums have almost all been in French, and much more traditional in style. For this reason it is no surprise that this new album has received some criticism by those who wish the band to continue along their path of the past. However, this new sound is exciting, fun, and most importantly, it works. The various styles support each other and blend seamlessly to create a music that is new and innovative.

This sound is being recognized world wide. The band has performed on three continents, can be heard in films such as The Apostle, and has won several awards from The Cajun French Music Association, including Band of the Year, Album of the Year, Best Accordion, and Best Fiddle in 1990, 1992, and 1993. They even received a Grammy nomination in 1993 for their third album, Trace of Time. What began as five guys looking to re-create the sounds of their cultural heritage has grown into one of the most influential Cajun bands of our time.

Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys play tonight in The 'Sco at 10 pm.

Guitars, gumbo and five guys: Steve Riley and his cajun Mamou Playboys (photo courtesy Rounder Records)