NRBQ (from the album Dragnet

NRBQ (from the album Dragnet on Omnivore Records (by Lee Zimmerman) For a group boasting a collective career that spans more than 55 years and nearly 50 studio albums, live discs, and comprehensive compilations, NRBQ remains all but ignored in the annals of American music. That may be due to the difficulty that comes with trying to define them, given that their repertoire touches on practically every genre that lies within the realms of modern music, including Rock, Ragtime, Blues, Jazz, Pop, Country, and nearly everything else that lies in-between. A well-versed ensemble in every discernible sense, their diversity and versatility offer ample reason for wider recognition.

Despite multiple changes in personnel — piano player Terry Adams remains the sole remaining member of the original line-up, while the rest of the group boast an average tenure of just under a decade — NRBQ more or less hews to its original template. Dragnet, their first full album of original material in seven years, finds them exploring the same varied touchstones as before, with “Where’s My Pebble” opting for pure Pop, “That Makes Me a Fool” delving into cocktail and cabaret, “I Like Her So Much” sharing a hint of twang, and “You Can’t Change People” boasting a Beach Boys-like sheen. So too, every song moves at a different pace, from the easy lilt of “The Moon and Other Things” to the easy saunter of “Miss Goody Two Shoes”, the double-time delivery of “Five More Miles” and the ticktock tempo accorded “L-O-N-E Lone-ly”, its mournful melody rife with self-pity. Consequently, there’s no clear definition in terms of the overall tone or tempo, thwarting any attempt at discerning NRBQ’s evasive identity.

It’s doubtful, then, that Dragnet will bring this band the greater fame and following that’s eluded them so long. (So too, it speaks volumes that the group photo gracing the back cover has them draped in shadows, further obscuring their identity.) Still, the fact that they persevere speaks volumes as far as their instincts and ability. If ever there was an outfit worthy of greater regard and respect, NRBQ provides the perfect pedigree. (By Lee Zimmerman)

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For more information, please visit the NRBQ website