Just as Clifton Chenier blended the sounds of his day to give birth to the crying baby of zydeco, similarly in the nineties, Terrance Simien uses contemporary materials to coin a zydeco for the new millennium.

Simien’s music is much more complex than the recycled vamps exalting salty dogs and dog hills. He sings in a silky, creamy high-end voice that’s gorgeously soulful, exhibiting a sheen like no other. Likewise, the band’s tight, exquisite harmonies are like a fresh breath on a cold January morning.

Simien’s songs are stirring and evocative compositions. The lyrics of “Same Dog” allegorically refer to cupid’s recurring arrow: “the same dog that bit me is now barking at you;” “All Her Lovin” is a satiny, amorous affair; “This Old Road” is a wide-angle focus on grinding tours, appreciative fans and the bonus of returning home.

Although it’s progressive zydeco unlike any other-the marvelously done folk classic “500 Miles” oozes with sounds of steel pan drums and “Paradise” sways in its own tropical tranquility-nevertheless, Simien’s Creole identity is still intact. The 6:08 minute version of “Jolie Blonde” swirls long enough to fall in love again while the zyde-funk, conga-crazy “Mardi Gras in the Country” revolves around the Creole chant of “tototot Ie mardi gras. “Macque Choux,” a little dance romper with Nicky Yarling’s Jazzy fiddling, takes its name from the Creole corn dish. Simien’s music is not your old man’s zydeco, but it’s a splendid alternative choice.