Annunciation

After three years without a recording contract, the Subdudes reappeared with this beautiful collection of soulful, gorgeous, funkily "subdued" music. It's another example of why the band was so popular with those who were exposed to them, and why they were often mentioned as one of the bands most deserving of wider recognition. The lyrics here seem so personal at times that the listener feels like he's being allowed into the secret places of the writers' lives. The music combines joy, melancholy, gospel fervor, and blues sincerity to create a unique and appealing sound. Most of the songs on this disc are built on an acoustic guitar foundation, but "Late at Night" is a blazing electric blues, and "Fountains Flow" features fiery blues harp and electric guitar. "(You'll Be) Satisfied" is as catchy as any hit single, while "Miss Love" is a spooky lament that builds dynamically to multiple climaxes. Once again, the Subdudes deliver a tasty treat worthy of being heard by a larger audience.