D.D. Verni & The Cadillac Band are set to release their second album, Buckle Up, on September 19 via Deko. This time, the band blends the pulse of rock ‘n’ roll with the charm of big band arrangements, aiming to make the genre more engaging for modern audiences. The album kicks off with the lead single and video “Lucky 13,” which arrived on July 18.
“Lucky 13” opens the album with an energetic riff, a searing guitar solo, and vibrant horns, all brought to life in the new video that showcases the full 13-piece band. Speaking about the track, D.D. Verni, best known as the bassist and songwriter for thrash metal veterans Overkill, said, “This was the first song I had written for this new album and kinda set the tone. 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.”
Verni emphasized how the live setting enhances the music’s impact. “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.”
He also shared the inspiration behind “Lucky 13”: “I was watching Casino or maybe an old Dean Martin movie,” Verni recalled. “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!”
With Buckle Up, Verni combines the high-octane approach of Overkill with his long-standing affection for artists like Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin, Fats Domino, and more contemporary inspirations such as the Brian Setzer Orchestra. The album builds on the foundation laid by the band’s 2021 debut Let’s Rattle, preserving its energy while featuring more intricate horn arrangements by Jim McMillen, known for his contributions to shows like Beverly Hills 90210 and Bridgerton, and collaborations with Christina Aguilera and Ricky Kej.
Verni explained his songwriting process simply: “When I’m writing and demoing these songs, it’s just a guitar and me. And they should be able to have that energy with just that, before anything else is added.”
The lineup on Buckle Up is a testament to Verni’s ability to gather accomplished musicians. The album features Bernie Dresel, longtime drummer for Brian Setzer; slap bassist Johnny Hatton; horn players who have worked with Paul McCartney and The Eagles; pianist Or Matias of Josh Groban and Broadway fame; guitarist Angus Clark from Trans-Siberian Orchestra; and backing vocals from the pop-rock duo Kingston & Greystarr. Recording took place in both New Jersey and Los Angeles, with Verni producing and Michael Frondelli (known for his work with Billy Idol and Pat Benatar) handling the mix.
“So psyched for you to hear round two!” Verni said. “I worked with so many great people on the last record I couldn’t wait to do another. Buckle Up means just what it says…this record brings together all of the experiences I got writing and recording the first record, as well as the shows we did to support it, and takes it to a new level.”
He added, “This is timeless, fun music. And for me, in a world that seems so chaotic every day, it’s a joy to have something that’s just plain fun, simple and energetic. To just leave your troubles behind, grab a drink and your girl and go out to a show like ours and have fun! Hoping to get to your town later in the year with the band!…and bring some of that energy.”
Buckle Up Track Listing:
- Lucky 13
- If U Wanna Dance
- Hey Mr. DJ
- I Can Be Most Anything
- Devil Dance
- Jambalaya (On The Bayou)
- These Days
- Not That Kind Of A Guy
- So Long
- Just Like Magic To Me
- Let’s Go Crazy
- Man With The Golden Arm
- Two Of A Kind
- I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas
