El Baile De La Cobra
This Atlanta-based quartet oozes enthusiasm and energy in serving up an infectious blend of rockabilly and swing. In the process, the Cigar Store Indians prove that melody and aggression can happily coexist. While the rhythm section roars and rumbles, Ben Friedman earnestly delivers his vocals over Jim Lavender's formidable electric twang and tinges of steel guitar, piano, and horns. The music ranges from cactus-and-armadillo-skull dirges to unassuming ballads to high-octane romps. Above all, the Indians make time-tested musical styles sound fresh and exciting; they're danceable and catchy without being shallow.--Marc Greilsamer