Mink DeVille

There is only one Willy DeVille and his band, Mink DeVille (1974 to 1985), were a one-of-a-kind band born of punk spirit (the were the original house band at CBGB) but leaning on an amalgam of blues, Latin rhythms, doo-wop, Cajun, R&B and a dollop of cabaret for good measure to deliver Willy’s songs of romantic conviction and yearning. Willy would later fold the band to move to New Orleans, sparking a revival in N’Awlins R&B. But in 1982, this configuration of Mink DeVille had just released Coup de Grace and the band, including Toronto’s own Paul James, back the elegantly dangerous Willy within an inch of their lives. Yet this 68-minute document is important for its portrayal of a 32-year-old DeVille, a true pioneer and groundbreaking character blessed with an elegant swagger and a truly magnetic presence. From his pencil-thin moustache to his oversized pompadour, DeVille moves like a cat, fully confident and in complete control of his gifts as front-man, communicating as much with his moves as with his distinctive vocals. Classic tracks include "Cadillac Walk,” "Spanish Stroll” and "Lipstick Traces,” and although the brightly lit stage doesn’t contribute much to the mood of the music, it’s all the better to see the magic unfold.