This compilation represents brass band material originally released on the Sound of New Orleans label in the early 1990s. Since that time, there have been numerous personnel changes within these groups and a few ensembles are no longer on the scene. Thus it’s somewhat nostalgic as well as informative and fun to hear these bands as they sounded almost a decade and a half ago. The musical emphasis is on tradition with the Tremé Brass Band serving up “The Saints/Mama Don’t Allow” and the Algiers Brass Band working on the classic “Joe Avery’s Blues.” The now-defunct High Steppers, whose members helped form the Hot 8, were already sounding fiery blowing on “Sixth Ward Jam.” Likewise, the young members of the Smitty Dee Brass Band heat things up on swinging “A Chicken Ain’t Nothin’ But a Bird.” Most groups get two cuts apiece with the Coolbone and Mahogany brass bands also in the mix. It is appreciated when the members of the group are introduced as on the Original Dixieland Hall Jazz Band’s cut, “Just a Closer Walk with Thee.” We learn that we’re listening to the late great trombonist Frog Joseph and pianist Ed Frank.