How did I get hear? #8 - Dennis O’Brien on Mink DeVille’s self-titled debut (“Cabretta”)

The romantic, passionate voice, songs and attitude flamed throughout the first album from the five piece Mink DeVille in 1977.

 

Fresh from CBGB’s, the band recorded the album in New York, the sessions helmed by Spector right hand man Jack Nitzsche and featuring Wrecking Crew sax player Steve Douglas. With dedicatory nods to Santo & Johnny, and Philly’s The Tymes, it is a loving synthesis of Cajun, Mariachi and Brill Building craft and style.

 

My group of the time, about to record my first album in New Zealand were seduced by the "Cadillac Walk" and the "Spanish Stroll". Guitarist Kevin Bayley wrote “My Maria” for the album – a perfect homage to The Drifters and Lieber and Stoller (with a little Marty Robbins thrown in!), while “Mixed Up, Shook Up Girl” was a staple of our live performances, and one of our favourite live tracks.

 

“Come A Little Bit Closer” (not on the Mink DeVille album, but a fave of theirs) remains the only song I have ever sung at karaoke (Knotts Berry Farm onwards!)