Dave Chamberlain

Since the inception of insurgent country, legions of modern honky-tonkers have tried to meld the seemingly disparate forces of punk rock and country music. Some have come close, but few have succeeded--until now. Memphis duo (which performs as a trio) the Legendary Shack Shakers bring the slathering energy of punk rock--complete with downgrading chord progressions--and plugs the formula into no-holed-barred country that draws equally from rockabilly and old-school Hank (a close listen might even uncover a little Canned Heat in the mix). Though the band's Bloodshot debut, "Cockadoodledon't," should be right on time for fans who're already on board, where the Shack Shakers shine is the stage. Lead singer Col. J.D. Wilkes makes for the rural Iggy Pop, juking and diving all over the stage, leading both the crowd and the music to an intensity rarely found outside of rock circles. The band's performance at South by Southwest this year (on a strange bill with the Black Keys and British art rockers Ikara Colt) was one of the music festival's highlights, a show that left country and rock fans alike feeling like they'd just sparred with Mike Tyson for an hour. Highly recommended.

The Legendary Shack Shakers play May 25 at the Abbey Pub, 3420 West Grace, (773)478-4408.

(2003-05-21)

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