"Soul Caddy" is the latest release from a band, formed in 1989, which had to release three albums until their fourth -- "Zoot Suit Riot" -- finally made it big. This band is, of course, the Cherry Poppin' Daddies, who hate to be identified with specific genres. After "Zoot Suit Riot" that was a risk, but with this new release the band's diverse sound ensures such labeling will not happen. Now that it has a broad and loyal fan base, the band seems to be trying to get back to its roots.
Originally a hybrid swing/ska/rock band, it had limited success until the 1997 release of "Zoot Suit Riot," a pure, hard-driven, swing album. Released at the beginning of the new swing movement, the album took off, giving the group the recognition they long deserved. Unlike that release, this one moves away from pure swing and diversifies with tracks ranging from pure swing, big band, oldies, '80s pop, alternative rock and hard rock sounds. But if one listens closely, a slight, background swing backbeat can be heard in many of the tracks.
The album evokes the feeling of a man out on the town for the night. Each song's mood traces his experiences. The first two tracks take us out the door, possibly as he goes to pick up his date, ready for a promising night with the upbeat, rocking swing sound of "Diamond Light Boogie" and "Swingin' With Tiger Woods."
The night soon heads downhill with the frustrated, hard-rocking sounds of "God Is A Spider." With the oldies sound of "Stay, Don't Just Stay," his date turns him down, though he still tries to keep up a good attitude.
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But starting with the alternative rock sound of the questioning "Grand Mal," and continuing through the slow, big band sound of "The Saddest Thing I Know" as he goes home, he meets with a rough end to the evening as he comes to grips with his loss. He cries in his drink during the hard-rocking "Irish Whiskey," tries to put on a good show during the pure swing sounds of "So Long Toots," but finally hits depression with "Bleeding Ceremony."
Throughout the record, lead singer Steve Perry does a phenomenal job as usual. The lyrics are among some of the best the group has ever produced. While not as sexually oriented and risqué as "Zoot Suit," the album has a fresh and edgy flavor.
Musically, this is a superior record, one of the best albums heard in a long time from any band. Ranging from traditional big band sound to pure swing, from '80s pop to alternative rock and to hard rock, the band stays true to their roots and manages to incorporate backbeat swing into just about all their music.
As for individual musical talent, one would be hard pressed to find a better group. The winning combination of Dan Schmid on bass, Steve Perry and Jason Moss on lead guitar, Dustin Lanker on keyboard and Tim Donahue on drums gives the album a harder edge even on its lighter tracks. The rest of the band, Dana Heitman on trumpet, Sean Flannery on tenor sax and bass clarinet and Ian Early on alto sax and bass clarinet round out the sound for the swinging, big band tracks. Add to this mix a group of additional excellent backup singers and musicians, and you have one formidable ensemble.
After an album of similar-sounding songs, Cherry Poppin' Daddies return with a vengeance, eager to push the envelope of musical traditions. "Zoot Suit Riot" showcased the Daddies' musical talent with traditional big band instruments and swing. "Soul Caddy" is a passionate return to their edgier, diverse beginnings. Although "Caddy" will surprise fans of "Zoot Suit," its musical departure from the last album most likely will impress listeners and establish the band's staying power.
Grade: A+
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