Somewhere back in the early 70's, if one was searching for "true grit," one sought out the venerable Marshall Rooster Cogburn. For those that remember the classic film, it was John Wayne's sole Oscar in a distinguished career and it has become an unforgettable presence in American art. If one seeks true grit these days, one should begin looking for it in Cadillac Moon.
Thought it's not likely Cadillac Moon will ever win an Oscar as they're a blues band, not an actor or a film (I guess they could pick one up for a soundtrack, given the opportunity), the five guys in this streamlined, musically-precise outfit will no doubt win enormous respect in the area of American art.
There are a lot of different styles of music under the roof of the blues and Cadillac Moon touches on every one of them in their set. They also play originals, a rarity in blues circles on the Island. From the blue-collar blues of "Hard Living" to the pop blues of "When Love Runs Out" to the Otis Redding-inspired "Keep Me in Mind," the Mooners kept shifting gears through the entire set. "Filet Gumbo" was another memorable original, a shuffle that would call to mind Little Feat, and "Easy For You To Say" had a lot of jazzy riffing that had the room swingin'. The song that got the biggest reaction, though, was the funniest tune, "Miss Crabtree", a tongue-in-cheek song that incorporated a classic line from The Little Rascals. Beyond just being funny, it had legitimate hooks.
The engine that drives this Cadillac is fueled by sterling musicians. You can always spot the veteran players, they show you as much heart and head as they do hands. Less is often more and they made huge statements with compact, concise playing. Mike Nugent's lead guitar-playing is smooth, stinging and fluid as he adds EXACTLY the right touches to every song in terms of solos and fills. Keyboardist Rich Campbell is another phenomenal player, a quick-fingered bastion of good taste and inventive soloing. Vocalist Al Santoriello has a versatile voice, he coolly shifts gears from rough-edged Paul Rodgers-esque crooning to sweeter, airier vocals. Bassist/background vocalist David Noyes and drummer Shawn Murray are as on the top of the music as a digital computer could be, punching out economically-powered bursts.
Cadillac Moon is a satisfying evening and a band that deserves a recording contract YESTERDAY. You can always spot seasoned veterans, they know how to make magic look like child's play. Whether you're searching for great blues or true grit, these by the guys. Rooster Cogburn would be proud.
John Blenn, Music and Entertainment Editor
