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instrument, proudly stating that “[Once] I’d…have to show another guitar player what I had in my
head. Now I play what I have in my head. …”.

Well, what he has in his head is magnificent. His close association with the best musicians in the
hill country has given him an edge that, for example, allows him to take one of his grandfather’s
songs, the beautiful ‘Bird Without a Feather’ and whilst sticking with the vibe of the song, to make

it his own.

That is one of two covers on the CD, the rest are Cedric’s originals, including the title track ‘I Be
Trying’ about the need to admit and address one’s own flaws, in which he is joined on vocals by his
daughter Portrika.

In short, this is a wonderful album, kicking sand in the face of those who suggest that Hill Country
music is dying. IMHO this will win awards!

Ian K. McKenzie

Dwayne Dopsie & The Zydeco Hellraisers—Set Me Free—
Louisiana Red Hot Records

Dwayne, is sometimes confused with his late father, Alton Jay
Rubin (Rockin’ Dopsie) who passed on in 1993. Dwayne (Rubin),
had his own band from the age of 19, but on his father’s demise,
found himself holding the baton. Dwayne and his band The
Zydeco Hellraisers have travelled the world and have been
nominated for dozens of accolades including a position of number
29 on an official State list of “Reasons to visit Louisiana”.

Dwayne has the physique of an athlete and brings an athleticism

to his performances that, unfortunately, is the only thing not
visible on this audio CD (check YouTube). Nevertheless, we have here some of the best twenty-first
century zydeco you are ever going to hear.

Most of the songs here are taken at break-neck pace (more than 100bpm + one at 215bpm) and
Dwayne’s accordion surges and sings above a thumping bass, driving drums and some neat scrub-
board work.

But wait, one of the best tracks for me is the much slower (70bpm), ‘Things I Used To Do’,

originally a Guitar Slim song, covered by SRV and many others. Here Dwayne brings a wonderful
soulful feel to the number with the benefit of a marvellous horn section. Not really zydeco this one
but still fan-dabbie-dozey. Some nice jazzy playing from Dwayne here too.

Don’t miss this one! If you have the slightest interest in contemporary Louisiana music, this one is a
must!

Ian K McKenzie