The Dirty Dozen Brass Band
Voodoo

LA RECENSIONE

Brass bands are our fanfares, brass and percussion bands. But here we are in New Orleans. After more than ten years of hard work, with blistering live performances in local clubs and funeral processions, they arrive at Columbia; yet nothing changes in their way of feeling music. Funk, jazz, rhythm'n blues contaminations, all with engaging and playful flair. A lot of music and little voice. In this first major experience, they are accompanied by illustrious guests. Dr. John, and who else? Dizzy Gillespie, Branford Marsalis. Year 1989. The only entirely their own track is the namesake that gives the album its title. The others are renditions of Charlie Parker, Stevie Wonder, Gillespie, traditionals. The Dirty Dozen Brass Band was formed in 1977; after various lineup changes, in 1980 a live show of theirs was recorded for a local radio station, marking the beginning of their adventure, made of collaborations, tours, even in Europe, and recording albums. Remaining true to their style, they have created a full and vibrant sound of rhythm'n blues and jazz that is never trivial, where music rules and one cannot remain indifferent. Misunderstood musicians who have fun and pass it onto us. Naturally, words are of no use, you need to listen to them and then judge.