The student news site of Marquette University

Marquette Wire

The student news site of Marquette University

Marquette Wire

The student news site of Marquette University

Marquette Wire

Hidden jewelcase

1960s, the Colonel experimented with sounds similar to

Zappa. Since then, he has delved into other projects, most recently The Codetalkers.

Their self-titled debut album, released in 2002, features a diverse palette of musical ingenuity, tinged with a soft southern flavor. The Codetalkers —

Hampton on guitar; Bobby Lee Rodgers on guitar, mandolin and organ; Sean “Oil Can” Peterson on bass and Tyler Greenwell on drums and percussion — combine serious jamming with not-so-serious lyrics for a total of 10 tracks, none of which are alike.

Story continues below advertisement

Hampton’s pure, raw vocals grab hold of you on a remake of Skip James’ “I’m So Glad,” while the foot-tappin’, jazz-fueled “UFO” reminds listeners that a sense of humor runs deep among The Codetalkers as Rodgers sings about alien abductions.

Funky Latin rhythms propel “Lima,” and the outrageous “Rice Clients” features Hampton ranting, while in the background cries of “Baltimore” are heard in different dialects.

For those who think earnest musicianship can’t also incorporate silly fun, think again.

~ Lydia Cox