Allen Fontenot

Allen Fontenot gives a fine example of the experience of a Cajun jamboree, and the quality of the sound is actually quite good for what is mainly comprised of live music. The audience in the background of the opening track, "Lacassine Special" (an Iry Lejeune cover), sound as if they are having a great time, and with good reason, given a great Cajun band like this. A tune written by Fontenot is featured on the second track, "Cajun Eyes Waltz." With meaningful, expressive French and English lyrics painted onto a melody-filled canvas, this tune cries out for attention. "Cajun From Church Point" features the lead vocals from Darrel Brasseaux along with some high-energy fiddle from Fontenot and some excellent accordion work. This is sure to be a dance favorite, with its uptempo rhythm-section flavoring. The cover of the D.L. Menard tune "The Back Door" has an amazing arrangement by Fontenot, taking on a country-rock beat with some spicy accentuations of soulful Cajun orchestrations. The vocal energy keeps the tempo of the melody building to the climactic instrumental breaks, making it another great dance tune. Track five is special, since it features three Rockin' Sidney songs rolled into what is titled "Zydeco Jam." Every musician is showcased in this Cajun/zydeco revue with the Country Cajuns. At a bit over six minutes, some may think it lengthy, but with musical virtuosity that never ceases, it zooms right by. Included on the album is one of the best covers of the Rockin' Sidney classic "Don't Mess With My Toot Toot." This tune was recorded live by Bernard Sound and features such a warm bayou sound that it makes the listener yearn to be at the recording site grooving along with the band. These are only a few examples of the fine tunes on the album, and all of the other songs find it easy to stand on their own merit: "Cajun Teenage Wedding" for its boogie-woogie energy, "Webb Pierce Blues" for its originality and charismatic melody, "Colinda" for its cheerful house-party feel, "Louisiana Moon" for the meaningful Cajun lyrics that will ring true for many a listener. Whether it's the zydeco sound or the traditional Cajun music that will deliver the groove the audience is seeking to hear, Allen Fontenot and the Country Cajuns are the band to have in the house. This album features all that could be hoped for in a fine example of Cajun/zydeco music, and then some. The heart and soul of Cajun music have been captured on this album; this is a group of musicians that have painted the audio portrait of the true Cajun spirit. This is a piece of artistry that will help keep the music alive from this special part of Louisiana, and serve as a focal point for future generations to cherish and hold sacred as part of their heritage. ~ Larry Belanger, Rovi