With their upcoming second album “Buckle Up”, D.D. VERNI & THE CADILLAC BAND bring big band music to a broader audience, blending the raw energy and tight songwriting of rock ‘n’ roll with smooth, retro-inspired arrangements and style. Set for release on September 19 via Deko, the 14-track album kicks off today (Friday, July 18) with the debut single and video, “Lucky 13”.
Serving as the album’s opener, “Lucky 13” sets the tone with its fiery riff, scorching guitar solo, and explosive horn section — all brought to life in an equally captivating video showcasing the full 13-piece band in action.
“This was the first song I had written for this new album and kinda set the tone,” says D.D., who is primarily known as bassist/songwriter with thrash metal pioneers OVERKILL. “Everything the band is about, cool riffs, great horn arrangements by Jim McMillen. Really wanted the first song and video to let people know again where the heart of the band is.” For the video, he adds, “This is really where this music comes alive…on stage! I can just feel the energy and vibe. So fun to be a part of! This was a really fun day, lots of laughs with a good bunch of guys and gals.”
“I was watching ‘Casino’ or maybe an old Dean Martin movie,” D.D. adds of the song’s inspiration. “I love the idea of being at the craps table with your girl and she’s blowing on the dice, you’re having a few drinks, and your buddies are around. You really don’t care whether you win or lose — you just want to be with the girl!”.
“Buckle Up” fuses the high-octane, stage-storming spirit of OVERKILL with D.D. Verni’s deep-rooted passion for legends like Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin, Fats Domino, and more recently, the BRIAN SETZER ORCHESTRA. Building on the momentum of their thrilling 2021 debut Let’s Rattle — where D.D. took the spotlight on vocals and searing guitar — Buckle Up takes things even further. The new album maintains the same vibrant energy and punch as its predecessor, while expanding its musical scope with more intricate horn arrangements crafted by Jim McMillen, known for his work on Beverly Hills 90210, Bridgerton, and with Grammy-winning artists like Christina Aguilera and Ricky Kej.
“Buckle Up” track listing:
01. Lucky 13
02. If U Wanna Dance
03. Hey Mr. DJ
04. I Can Be Most Anything
05. Devil Dance
06. Jambalaya (On The Bayou)
07. These Days
08. Not That Kind Of A Guy
09. So Long
10. Just Like Magic To Me
11. Let’s Go Crazy
12. Man With The Golden Arm
13. Two Of A Kind
14. I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas
