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!