Arkansas fans of Lucero have come to expect a December show from the Memphis-based punk-country band. The group’s lead singer, Ben Nichols, is a Little Rock native, and Nichols always seems to bring the boys to his hometown around the holidays for a show at Rev Room. This year is no different. The sounds of a raucous night in Memphis, punctuated by the raspy vocals of Nichols and blues, soul and horns of the band will fill the venue Saturday night.
Lucero has released eight studio albums — as well as a handful of live recordings — since its self-released debut, The Attic Tapes, came out in 2000. Their major-label debut came nine years later with 1372 Overton Park, released by Universal Music Group. 1372 Overton Park was the first Lucero effort to feature a horn section, which added an element of refinement and depth to Lucero’s already popular sound.
The relationship with Universal didn’t last past the one record, but the sound of 1372 Overton Park stuck and is apparent in Lucero’s next studio album, Women & Work, released in 2012 with ATO Records. (Four albums were released under the band’s own label, Liberty & Lament.)
In addition to guitarist and lead singer Nichols, the band’s current makeup includes Roy Berry on drums, John C. Stubblefield on bass, Brian Venable on guitar, Todd Beene on pedal steel guitar and Rick Steff on piano, organ and accordion. The man behind the horn arrangements is legendary Memphis saxophonist Jim Spake. Some of these guys have played and recorded alongside the likes of North Mississippi Allstars, Hank Williams Jr. and Dexys Midnight Runners, and several have side and solo projects. This is no ragtag conglomeration of musicians; this is a team of deep, soulful talent, which is more than apparent in the act’s boogie-inducing live shows.
Opening for Lucero is fellow Memphis group the Mighty Soul Brass Band, whose sound is reminiscent of a New Orleans brass band while honoring the musical traditions that are distinct to Memphis.
Tickets for the 18-and-up show are $21 in advance and $26 day of show. A portion of proceeds will be donated to CARTI for cancer research. The show begins at 8:30 p.m.