Music
Jon Batiste and Stay Human, Social Music (Razor and Tie)
Jon Batiste, like so many of the great New Orleans pianists who came before him, cannot be contained. Batiste, whom locals undoubtedly still refer to as Jonathan, performs with […]
Matt Sakakeeny & Willie Birch, Roll with It — Brass Bands in the Streets of New Orleans (Duke University Press)
When the energy of a social aid and pleasure club parade becomes particularly high and the forward motion of the second line feels unstoppable, the chant “Roll with it…” encourages […]
Previewing Davell Crawford’s Legends Series at Little Gem Saloon
“I’ve known Irma my entire life—actually since before I was born,” declares pianist/vocalist Davell Crawford, purposely exaggerating he and Irma Thomas’ life-long relationship. Humorously, Thomas, reiterates his view, saying, “Yes, […]
Steve Blailock (1944-2013)
“When people were doing other things, I was always looking for the music,” Steve Blailock explained in a 1997 interview. A consummate guitarist and banjo player who was a fixture […]
Inside the Music: The Life of Idris Muhammad, Idris Muhammad (Book Review)
In the heyday of New Orleans rhythm and blues, it was rare that sidemen on a recording session were credited. Yet jazz aficionados are aware that it was Idris Muhammad […]
Hot 8 Brass Band, Tombstone (TruThoughts)
A sense of sincerity prevails in the Hot 8’s latest release. The lyrics come from the heart, the rhythm from the street, and the all-for-one musical attitude stems from the […]
Nick Sanders Trio, Nameless Neighbors (Sunnyside Records)
Pianist Nick Sanders’ classical training is evident on Nameless Neighbors, his debut album on the prestigious Sunnyside Records label. Sanders and his trio with bassist Henry Fraser and drummer Connor […]
Louis Armstrong:
Born on the Fourth of July?
Unbeknownst to some, a large elephant turns up at the party when New Orleans celebrates the birthday of its native son, the late, great Louis Armstrong at the Satchmo SummerFest […]
Jason Stewart, Cyclicality (Independent)
Bassist Jason Stewart, a native New Orleanian who studied at NOCCA, Tulane University and New York’s Julliard School of Music, has long contributed to this city’s modern jazz scene. He’s […]
Various Artists, Ashe Cultural Arts Center Presents: Healing Force (Independent)
What turned out to be a magical June night in 2012 brought together a diverse array of artists to perform at the Ashe Cultural Arts Center. The music, much of […]
