One of the best of a “new breed” of New
Orleans brass
bands, the core and front line of The Coolbone Brass Band is
built around four brothers: leader Steven “Coolbone” Johnson on
trombone, Ernest Johnson on trumpet, Darryl Johnson on alto sax,
and Ronell “Roo” Johnson on tuba and trombone.
Complemented here by a first-class rhythm section and augmented
by an array of guest musicians on brass, the Coolbone Brass Band
returns to the roots of New Orleans brass band music: the
old-time bands that marched through the streets of the city
playing everything from hymns and dirges to swinging spirituals
and funky dance tunes.
And the theme is Mardi Gras – that unique and colorful New
Orleans holiday when brass bands are in evidence everywhere,
marching in all the parades and playing for a wide array of
festive gatherings.
Over time, this tradition has developed a repertoire all its
own, one represented by such classics as “Mardi Gras in New
Orleans,” “Paul Barbarin’s Second Line,” and “Bourbon Street
Parade.” Also in that repertoire are a sampling of spirituals
favored by New Orleans brass bands, like “Over in the Glory
Land,” “Down by the Riverside,” and “When the Saints Go Marchin’
In.” To these always-popular selections, The Coolbone Brass Band
has added some instrumentals favored by New Orleans jazz bands,
including “Hindustan,” “Wolverine,” and Duke Ellington’s
“Caravan.”
One listen to this festive collection and you’ll be immediately
transported to the streets of the Crescent City, marching at the
front of your very own parade!