This is Buckwheat's second effort since docking at Chris Blackwell's Island last year. A one-time fixture on the close-knit Louisiana-East Texas zydeco circuit, Buckwheat (Stanley Dural Jr.) Zydeco may seem an unlikely prospect for a major label. But with the recent success earned by roots-oriented acts like Los Lobos and Robert Cray, Buckwheat is as likely a candidate as any to follow in their footsteps. You need the right song, however, and unfortunately the right song just isn't contained here.

The producers, Rob Faboni and Ted Fox, try to steer Buckwheat in the direction of contemporary rock & roll, with mixed results. And while it might be difficult for hardened zydeco fans to readjust to Buckwheat in this format, most listeners should consider Taking It Home an enjoyable and infectious effort.

Buckwheat's vocals are at times tentative, but his original material is good, his band solid – particularly the horns – and his fiery accordion is much in evidence throughout. Eric Clapton guests on "Why Does Love Got to Be So Sad," contributing an unobtrusive rhythm track and patented solo on the old Derek and the Dominos rocker. The most effective tracks to be found, however, are "Drivin' Old Gray" and the title track, both hyperactive accordion instrumentals where Buckwheat really lets the chips fly.

This is far from being a blockbuster album, but if you enjoyed Buckwheat's last album – or if you're looking for something slightly left of center – do try this one. (RS 539)

JEFF HANNUSCH