Review: “Lucky One,” Raul Malo
We ease into springtime mode (and SXSW in Austin) with this fine new album from Raul Malo, Lucky One. This is the first album of original material from the Mavericks front man in about eight years, and fans of the big guy with the big voice won’t be disappointed. The songs wheel from country thumpers (“Lonely Hearts”) to swing with a little Latin flavor (“Moonlight Kiss”). Produced by Steve Berlin of Los Lobos, the songs on Lucky One get a big boost from inventive arrangements and fine instrumentation (including Raul himself on guitar). Malo is huge among Americana (alt-country, country-rock, whatever) audiences and Lucky One is a solid shot to the fence for these folks. More casual listeners might find some of this a little sugary and schmaltzy, but to my ears the album’s highlights are surefire toe-tappers like the title track. Raul’s big voice makes him the obvious heir apparent to Roy Orbison – if that sounds at all attractive to you, then check out Lucky One.
Raul Malo will perform at SXSW in Austin: March 19, free in-store at Waterloo Records, 3 p.m.; and on March 20 at Auditorium Shores, free outdoor concert with Bob Schneider and the Arc Angels, gates open at 5 p.m.
30 Days Out 
March 30, 2009 at 11:23 pm
I am 60 years old and have NEVER followed a “star” of any configuration before. Raul has captured my spirit. Please keep me informed of his recordings and concerts.
thank you very much.