Seven years after regrouping, the subdudes are going stronger than ever, and the proof's in the grooves: the band's eighth studio CD, Flower Petals was just released on August 25, 2009, on 429 Records.

Flower Petals, which was recorded by the band in Fort Collins, Colo., and produced by the band and well-known producers Ron Albert, Howard Albert and Steve Alaimo, weaves a tale of murder, deceit and redemption.

Tommy Malone (vocals, guitar) and fellow founding members John Magnie (keyboards, vocals) and Steve Amedee (vocals, percussion) make up the core of the band, joined by longtime compadre Tim Cook (vocals, bass, percussion) as well as bassist/guitarist Jimmy Messa. Malone, Amedee and Messa grew up in Louisiana — Malone played Bourbon Street straight out of high school — while Coloradoan Magnie emigrated there in search of Professor Longhair.

The subdudes formed in 1987, spinning off from the more raucous, original incarnation of the Continental Drifters (the name was later revived by Peter Holsapple and friends) during one of Magnie’s weekly piano gigs at Tipitina’s in New Orleans. With exquisite vocal interplay and unique elements like Malone’s slide, Magnie’s accordion and Amedee’s brushed and hand-struck tambourine, the subdudes established themselves with their blend of soul, roots rock, country, Cajun, funk and gospel.

Since regrouping in 2002 after a six-year layoff, they've released Miracle Mule (2004), Behind the Levee (2006), Street Symphony (2007), Live at the Ram's Head (2008) and now Flower Petals.

The subdudes tour constantly, so keep an eye on our tour calendar here and at subdudes.com/tour.php