If you enjoyed that one-hit-wonder “Little Black Backpack” by Stroke 9, you’re in luck because it sounds 100 times better on their new album Cafe Cuts, an acoustic compilation of their old favorites.

Though “Backpack” was their most commercialized single on the album Naughty Little Thoughts, other songs on Cafe Cuts include “Do it Again” which has some suggestive moaning and hysterical lyrics, all done in a soft ballad.

It’s interesting to hear such suggestive phrases, sung in a sweet, innocent tone.

“California” displays the vocal talents of lead singer, Luke Esterkyn. Not only is he a great vocalist, he is absolutely gorgeous as well. Seriously, ladies, I highly recommend attending their April 14 Sacramento concert for great music and great eye-candy.

The band formed in San Francisco, which makes it even more appealing as they are local.

Released under Stroke 9’s own label, Cafe Cuts is different than anything I have ever heard. Each song is unique and each track sounds completely different from the last.

Currently they are on tour, traveling around California from bar to bar. They canceled their only scheduled out-of-state gig, which was to be in Seattle Washington, for unknown reasons.

The album, which came out on Feb. 7, is soft, calming and great for driving with the top down on a sunny day. The album is selling for $12.99 on their Web site, www.stroke9.com and is also available on www.amazon.com.

Stroke 9 will be performing at Marilyn’s at 908 K Street in downtown Sacramento on April 14 at 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 and you must be 21.

Lauren King can be reached at [email protected].