The Marmadukes
The Marmadukes
(self-released)

Anyone who's seen the Marmadukes live can attest to it: They understand the art of the groove. The bond between the Marmadukes and their audience is impressive, and it's based on a sound that's soulful, funky and clean. Avoiding most of the traps that groups evolving out of a jam-band culture can fall into, the band distinguishes itself with solid musicianship, a warm sound and a talent for lyrics stuffed with earnest poetic stylings.

If any criticism could be applied to the Marmadukes, it's that their freshman effort occaisionally loses focus, indulging in a non-surprising tendency to wander off on instrumental jam sessions. Fortunately, tracks like "Disco" and "Old Wood Revisited" have enough juicy hooks and keyboard licks to reel in even the most jaded of listeners; the Marmadukes have a soulful warmth that makes them both accessible and engaging, and it shines through the entire album.

While the Marmadukes may be at the outset of their careers, their solid, earnest and funk-inflected sound is already winning them a loyal following. If you've got 5 seconds free, hop on the Marmadukes mailing list; It's a good bet that this a star that'll keep rising.

— James Norton (jrnorton@flakmag.com)