July 06, 2005

Drums & Tuba "El Tubador"

For the past decade, the Chicago-via-Texas trio of Drums & Tuba have wowed a small but loyal following of music fans who appreciate the simple formula of drums, tuba and guitar. Thanks to signing to Ani DiFranco's label Righteous Babe, Drums & Tuba found a new life as a regular attraction in the 'jam band' community. Don't let the association frighten you; if anything, Drums & Tuba's live performances are very heady experiences, and they're easily one of America's better live bands. (I once saw them perform for two hours to a coffee house audience of five people, and the nonexistant audience never stopped them from performing an excellent set.)

Currently finishing their third album for Righteous Babe, this seven inch single serves as a nice stopgap release. Both songs are standard Drums & Tuba fare; "El Tubador" contains the more upbeat and experimental elements of Drum & Tuba's music, while the b-side, "The Peleton," represents Drums & Tuba's mellower side. For those who aren't familiar with Drums & Tuba, this is a great place to start, and for longtime fans, this is mere confirmation that Drums & Tuba is still a great band.

--Joseph Kyle

Artist Website: http://www.drumsandtuba.com
Label Website: http://www.sickroomrecords.com

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