7 Devils

Not much direct commentary from The Radiators exists specifically about their song "7 Devils" from the 2006 album Dreaming Out Loud, but the song’s vibe and the band’s history offer some intriguing context. The track, with its swampy, blues-inflected rock, fits the band’s self-described “fish head music” style—a funky, New Orleans-rooted sound that’s both gritty and danceable. In a 2006 interview with OffBeat magazine, keyboardist and chief songwriter Ed Volker hinted at the album’s creation during a tough time post-Hurricane Katrina, saying the band poured their “heart and soul” into the record while New Orleans was still reeling. “7 Devils” likely channels that raw emotion, with its dark, mystical undertones possibly nodding to the chaos and resilience of the era. The song’s live performances, as noted on setlist.fm, were rare but electric, often sparking wild reactions from their dedicated “fish head” fanbase, who’d lose themselves in the groove at shows like the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

The Radiators formed in January 1978 after a legendary jam session in Ed Volker’s garage in New Orleans. As detailed on Wikipedia, the five-piece—Volker (keyboards, vocals), Dave Malone (guitar, vocals), Camile Baudoin (guitar), Reggie Scanlan (bass), and Frank Bua (drums)—clicked instantly. Scanlan, who’d previously played with Professor Longhair, recalled in a 2019 interview on their official site that they jammed for five hours straight and quit their old bands the next day. Their early gigs at places like Luigi’s Pizza Parlor on Elysian Fields built a cult following, though one show famously got shut down when Bua brought a real chainsaw on stage during “Texas Chainsaw Massacre.” This high-energy, rebellious spirit defined their rise, blending blues, R&B, funk, and rock with New Orleans’ musical DNA. Despite limited commercial chart success, their relentless touring and infectious live shows earned them a loyal fanbase and respect from peers like The Grateful Dead’s Bob Weir, who joined them for a memorable 2005 San Francisco set.

The Radiators’ official website is theradiators.org, where fans can find updates, merch, and archival content. Their Facebook page remains active with posts about reunion shows and fan memories, while their Instagram shares throwback photos and occasional updates. On X, they engage with fans, posting about gigs and New Orleans culture. For fan communities, the Radiators Fan Group on Facebook is a vibrant spot where “fish heads” swap stories, share bootlegs, and organize meetups for shows. Another fan-driven site, SetTopia, offers detailed song stats and setlists, including “7 Devils” performances, keeping the band’s live legacy alive.