Bon Reve

At 2003's Festivals Acadiens in Lafayette, LA , this CD was called the "Sergeant Pepper's" of Cajun music by festival founder and Cajun historian Barry Ancelet. In returning to the sound of traditional Cajun music, SRMP has also made a thoroughly contemporary Cajun record. With virtuouso musiciainship featuring Steve Riley's accordion playing, David Greely on fiddle, Sam Broussard on Cajun lead guitar, Kevin Dugus keeping a steady drum beat and Brazos Huval pumping bass guitar, plus thoughtful arrangements, soaring harmony vocals and varying instrumental textures, the band celebrates the riches to be found in Cajun tradition, yet is firmly footed in a modern music aesthetic. Bon Rêve demonstrates just how vibrant Cajun music still is, and contains some wonderful new songs including the title track, "Vini Jilie", "Maline", and "Coco d'oeil dans le fond du puit", plus some excellent renditions of songs by Dennis McGee, Belton Richard, Carlton...Read more

How do these guys do it? SRMP always seem to excell with every effort and yet keep it fresh. Even updates of cajun standards sound better than the originals.
One thing that is impressive is that you can tell they're having fun making music without getting sloppy like so many other bands that drop the quality for goofin' around.
Best effort to date.

I own just about every Steve Riley &TMP's CD out there, and this is my absolute favorite. The title track is so catchy, even my four-year-old sings along. "Vini, Jilie" is heartbreakingly sweet. There is just the right amount of contemporary influence and variety to make this a great "listening" CD. If you are looking for more of a dance CD, "Live" is a great choice.