United States
After forming in 2003 and releasing two independent albums on their own Redbird label (named after their St. Louis, MO home base) in 2003’s self-titled bow and 2005’s concept album Broken Bride (both re-released in 2009 by Island), Ludo scored a Top 12 Hot Modern Rock track in “Love Me Dead,” the burlesque-style necrophilia smash from their major label bow. And while humor is a vital part of the group’s approach, their musical chops place them closer to art-prog artists like Frank Zappa, They Might Be Giants, Ben Folds, Randy Newman and Queen than a novelty act.
“It’s kind of a blessing and a curse,” admits keyboardist Tim Convy about the band’s sense of humor. “But it’s a large part of what we do. We’re just trying to be genuine and true to the cornucopia of human experience. We have songs that are dark and creepy as well as songs that are stupid and fun.” That musical eclecticism is often overlooked because Ludo make such damn catchy radio singles. In fact, Volpe is a college music composition major, and guitarist Tim Ferrell a muso/savant whose interests include microtonal music and the “notes between the notes of the western scale,” while Texas native Matt Palermo manned the bass drum in his high school marching band. “We grew up listening to ‘80s and ‘90s pop radio,” says Convy. “We won’t deny ourselves a good large chorus, with harmonies and plenty of theatricality.”
Simple, genuine and down-to-earth, but smart. They can be funny, but also dead serious about their craft. In all, a rock and roll band for the post-modern 21st century. “We feel each individual song can stand on its own,” explains Volpe. “You want something that can be successful on the radio, and at the same time, keep your fans happy. And I think this record will keep them very happy.” “Andrew’s imagination is unmatched in its inventiveness. We just take his crazy ideas and make them accessible,” nods Convy. “Our goal has always been to be able to do this for awhile. There’s more of a sense that we belong this time, even if we still don’t quite fit in.”
