Music
Bunk Johnson, Rare & Unissued Masters: Volume Two 1943–1946 (American Music)
These recordings of New Orleans trumpet legend Bunk Johnson, who first gained a reputation in the period from 1905 to 1915, represent his work during his “comeback” era. It has […]
Through the Generations: Wendell Brunious and the “Brunious sound”
Trumpeter and vocalist Wendell Brunious boasts a towering musical family tree primarily flowered with trumpets. He is the son of trumpet master John “Picket” (or “Picky”) Brunious Sr. and Nazimova […]
Living the Tradition: Mark Braud’s musical family
“It’s all New Orleans and it is all a part of me,” says Mark Braud of the music heard on his latest release, Living the Tradition. The trumpeter, vocalist and […]
In Memoriam: Henry Butler (September 21, 1948 – July 2, 2018)
Henry Butler once described himself as “a work in progress,” as his aim was to continually challenge himself and the status quo. The brilliant pianist, vocalist and composer accomplished that […]
Ledisi Talks Back
Ledisi, whose name means “to bring forth” in the Yoruba language, will be in a very familiar setting when she performs at the Essence Music Festival on Friday, July 6. […]
Five Questions with DJ Captain Charles
DJ Captain Charles spins at Essence Festival again. The immensely popular deejay and Old School 106.7 FM radio host, who made his first appearance at Essence in the late 1990s, […]
Derrick Freeman and James Martin, Soul (Independent)
It’s almost guaranteed that if Derrick Freeman’s name is on it, there’s going to be some funk involved. Sure enough, the drummer is rhythmically, vocally and attitude-wise up to that […]
Dr. Michael Torregano, For Your Ears Only (Mikeyjazz Music)
Michael Torregano reaches deep into the American songbook, a favorite source of material for the New Orleans pianist. Folks with similar musical tastes are sure to know every tune and […]
In Memoriam: Scotty Cathcart Hill (1947-2018)
“The trombone is a fascinating instrument,” Scotty Hill declared in a 1999 interview when he was inducted into New Orleans Magazine’s Jazz All-Stars. The love of the instrument never dimmed […]
We’re Comin’ for Ya!: Cha Wa creates a mashup of Mardi Gras Indian chants and brassy horn
When a Mardi Gras Indian striding down a New Orleans street yells, “Cha wa!” he’s warning nearby Mardi Gras Indian gangs, “We’re comin’ for ya!” It stands as a signal […]
