With its cover depicting a dance party of gyrating ’60s hipsters, one might initially think Matte is attempting to recycle his 2011 release Old School. While Old School was a reworking of rock ’n’ roll classics, Rockin the Town features eight Matte originals showcasing The Kingpins’ versatility that straddles various South Louisiana genres. Its trademark is still crunchy, buzzy, party-doused zydeco, as evidenced by the opening “The Tequila Song.” It’s somewhat reminiscent of The Champs’ 1958 Latin-tinged surf instrumental “Tequila” but with contemporary 420 references.” The blitzing title song and “That Good Boudin” follow a similar zany spirit. On various tracks, journeyman saxman Pat Breaux unleashes screeching, hair-parting rides while guitarist Kevin “Turtle” Cormier scorches his solos.

Half the songs are well-done slower numbers. It’s these tracks that demonstrate the depth of Matte’s songwriting augmented by a compelling vocal performance. “Go On” follows a lovely melody and is graced with eloquent lines like “Whisper sweet songs in harmony.” It’s the perfect soundtrack for those moonlit, romantic moments before any pre-nup is signed.

As good as everything else is, “Fly Angel Fly” is even more impressive, an eye-watering tribute to two fallen friends. Cormier plays a soaring, cloud-scraping solo and Matte sings such powerful lines as: “You’re every reason why I’ll never be afraid to die.” For those experiencing loss, it’s sure to have a cathartic effect. For those who are not, other tracks offer the necessary escape from reality.