For better or worse we are firmly in the grasp of the holiday season. As the scene begins to slow down a bit before the rush of Christmas and New Years, it’s time to revisit a few new releases and some great classics that will be perfect for the music lover in your life.
James Booker – The Lost Paramount Tapes
In 1973 James Booker when into the studio for an all night session after having already played a gig earlier in the evening. The result of this session was what is widely considered to be one of Booker’s finest performances and fixed point of reference in the evolution of New Orleans music. Earlier this year Vinyl Me Please released a beautiful vinyl version of this record—which would make a fine addition to any collection.
Future Cowboys – Going Kamikaze
This record is the collaboration of Jamie Bernstein, Even Cannata and Miguel Oliveira – all heavies in their own right. Recorded in an old house near City Park, the modern sensibilities of the tracks meld with the aural feel of the city. Check out the track “CHOOSE” below.
People Museum – I Dreamt You in Technicolor
I’ve already talked a fair bit about this record this year. The partnership of Jeremy Phipps and Claire Givens has yielded a glimpse of what New Orleans music will look like in years to come. They blend the electronic with the traditional in ways that reveal new paths for both. Check out “Fly By” below.
Aurora Nealand and The Royal Roses – Tribute to Sideny Bechet
I’ve been revisiting this 2016 recording from Preservation Hall quite a bit lately as it is one of our toddler’s favorite records. Nealand and the Royal Roses capture the essence of what makes traditional jazz timeless. These recordings are sheer bliss. Below watch the group perform Bechet’s “Shag” at the Maison last year.
Helen Gillet – Helkiase
Helen Gillet remains one of our cities great treasures. Her latest release is a recording of an intimate solo performance. This artifact is a perfect snapshot into her artistic vision and virtuosic talent. I’m still processing the densely layered stories she produces here. Watch her build the astounding “Slow Drag Pavageau” below.
Shamarr Allen – True Orleans
Shamarr Allen is back with a collection of songs dedicated to New Orleans. This record sounds like our city from start to finish. The songs blend styles and genres in ways that just sound like home. This is a great one to send to those folks who may be missing our fair city. Check out the Big Freedia collaboration “Greatest Place in the World” below.
To Do This Week
Tonight Brother Dege is at Gasa Gasa with Drunken Prayer and Tom McDermott and Aurora Nealand are at the Backroom at Buffa’s. Tomorrow The Wanglers are at Gasa and Soul Sister is at One Eyed Jacks. Friday night you can also catch Kermit Ruffins at Blue Nile. Saturday Cole Williams is at the Little Gem Saloon. Sunday Damien Rice is at the Orpheum. Monday Born Ruffians are at Gasa. Tuesday Particle Devotion are at Gasa with Monobody and Dinosaurchestra is at d.b.a.
To Listen This Week
- St. Vincent did a remarkable cover of Lou Reed’s “Perfect Day” at the Brooklyn Academy of Music via Youtube
- Check out the excellent Tiny Desk concert from Boygenius via NPR
- Great new sounds from Sigur Ros’ Jonsi via CoS
