Le Grand Bleu

This wonderfully eclectic band is back and continuing their fine work of expanding and blending the boundaries of southern Louisiana's music. Is their music country, Cajun, rock & roll, or maybe roots rock? The labeling doesn't matter; it is good music that reaches across all borders and embraces a bigger existence. About seven of the 11 songs are sung in French -- or partially so -- which says to some that they are Cajun. They love music and are not afraid to show all the different influences that have assisted them in becoming the band they are. Some of the songs stick to one genre, while others shift, switch, and blend in the progression of the song. Eight of the 11 songs were either written or co-written by Mark Meaux, and only one of the tunes here is not written by a bandmember. Whatever style they are in, though, you can rest easy it will be entertaining, well-played, and very danceable music. The personnel has shifted a bit, but that doesn't seem to have upset the balance of the band at all (Steven LeBlanc is listed as a guest; however, he plays on all but one cut). They have a couple of high-profile tracks that contribute to the overall sound by enhancing it as opposed to standing out. This is a well-balanced disc that deserves a good listening. ~ Bob Gottlieb