Evangeline

Evangeline's eponymous debut is a pop-country collection with a Louisiana influence that becomes quickly apparent on the opening track "Bayou Boy." While the group's expressive vocal harmonies and impressive instrumental leads guide the album, it's the Gulf Coast groove that's filling the sails. The typically rollicking "Hey, Renee" is as predictable as drinking too many hurricanes at Mardi Gras. But ballads like "Am I a Fool" and "Who's Gonna Love You" have a mind toward tradition, and include tasteful fiddle leads and strong lead vocal turns, while later tracks stir up the melting pot with Cajun rave-ups and interesting rhumba rhythms. Like executive producer Jimmy Buffett, Evangeline's compass centers south of Nashville. The band still knows its way there, but when it goes, it's bringing its washboard and a huge bottle of hot sauce.