The New Orleans-based Subdudes have always quietly and confidently gone about their business as one of the finest “roots-rock” groups working the circuit, their musicianship tight and experienced where it counts. Their attributes are obvious and so second-nature (they make it sound easy) that they’re often overlooked, since they do admittedly lack that flamboyant personality/ singer who could set them apart. Instead, the Subdudes rely on teamwork, each member contributing to the bottom line with supportive harmonies and an intuitive sense of space. The group never overplays. Singer Tommy Malone conveys an affecting emotionalism without turning to histrionics. 2007’s Street Symphony shows the band in strong spirit, still reeling from Hurricane Katrina with “Poor Man’s Paradise” and still proud of their own working class roots with the swamp-blues of “Brother Man.” But it’s the organ-stoked soul groove of “No Man” and the Mellencamp-styled rocker “Fair Weather Friend” that prove their music timeless. While clearly influenced by ‘60s soul and ‘70s-80’s heartland rock, there’s nothing retro about these fine modern songs.