New Breed Brass Band’s totally kickin’ recently-released album could only be, as the title and music indicate, Made in New Orleans. It’s doubtful if anyone can argue with that because the Crescent City’s street culture permeates the attitude and beats that are heard emanating from the social and pleasure clubs’ parades, the Black Indians—and yes, hip-hop—that also lives among the longer-established traditions and is embraced by a next generation of musicians and friends who hang and play together.
Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews, who has demonstrated his savvy on how to keep his feet on the street and his finger on the pulse of the world arena, produced the album with those successful elements prominent. Working with his cousin, New Breed Brass Band leader and snare drummer Jenard Andrews, who is trumpeter James Andrew’s son, Shorty contributes more than his ability on horn or as a composer: he’s got these guys fine-tuned. No bad notes here.
Made in New Orleans gets goin’ on “Come On Out” with Jenard rhythmically leading the procession. Sousaphonist Michael Brooks, a co-composer along with Troy and Jenard, powerfully lays down the essential bottom. Next, the music helps demand “Drop It How You Feel It,” with pushin’ vocals by late 5th Ward Weebie and Wild Wayne.
“Can’t Let Go,” written by the same three as are many of the tunes, melodically has Trombone Shorty’s stamp all over it. It’s one of several instrumentals with most of the cuts coming in on at a little over three minutes. Like when you’re “on a line,” ya gotta keep up.
Various guest artists give each tune a different punch. When trumpeter extraordinaire Nicholas Payton steps in on “Move Something” the New Breed Brass Band’s horns evolve stylistically to act as a big band section to compliment his contemporary jazz edge. When saxophonist Jeff Coffin, best known with the Dave Matthews Band, arrives for “Treme Island,” it becomes a laid-back Caribbean party. This style of sway is familiar to folks on a second line as it’s often used by bands to calm a crowd after a particularly frenetic number.
Made In New Orleans salutes the Mardi Gras Indians on the album’s closer, “Won’t Bow Down” featuring the vocals of Spy Boy Nut.
The New Breed Brass Band’s Made in New Orleans truly captures the spirit of this city’s “we are one” street culture that has been vital to their lives.
New Breed Brass Band perform at Jazz Fest on May 5 at 3:50p Jazz & Heritage Stage.