The Northern Light

Lucero -- "Nobody's Darlings" Liberty and Lament [Click to enlarge]

Lucero’s fourth full-length album, “Nobody’s Darlings,” hits shelves May 24, and it is a boot rockin’, beer swellin’ alt-country album. To many listeners, hearing a band described as “country” sends chills to the bone. The term probably flashes Shania Twain, Tobey Keith and Garth Brooks in many minds. While those artists’ style of pop-country does have a large appeal, it has evolved a great deal from its roots. Pop-country artists dominate the national charts, but there is another form of country that presents a more honest view of country music: Alternative-country. Also known as alt-country, many of the bands play a style of dirty down-home southern-twang rock that would appeal to anyone getting down on the farm.

“Nobody’s Darlings” sees the band complete its rock evolution, which began on their 2003 release, “That Much Further West.” Lucero’s sound has changed a lot with their last two releases. The band has embraced a more rock sound, and it really shows on “Darlings.” There are many guitar solos, and fewer acoustic guitar-driven songs. With the change in their dynamic they have lost a little bit of their twang, but their new southern rock styles are a nice addition. Ben Nichols’ raw vocals are always honest and gut wrenching. There are many great tracks on the album, but it isn’t the band’s best work. If you are new to Lucero, I would recommend picking up “Tennessee” first, but if you are a Lucero fan this is a must have.

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