Just What the Doctor Ordered: Dr. Michael White Live. Out now on Basin Street Records.
For nearly 45 years, Dr. Michael White has been bringing smiles to faces with his joy-filled, masterful clarinet-playing in the tradition of New Orleans jazz. May 5, 2017 was a special night in this storied career. In an evening celebrating Basin Street Records’ 20th anniversary, Dr. Michael White and his quartet (plus special guest Jason Marsalis) captivated an audience at the packed Little Gem Saloon with forty minutes of his mesmerizing performance. A Michael White show is more than a concert, it’s an experience. Like a siren in the sea, the first dulcet tones from White’s clarinet immediately draw the listener in; what ensues is nothing short of magic, a performance steeped in tradition—one that perhaps wouldn’t sound out of place in the very same venue in the 1920s—but full of luster and originality—something that makes you want to get up and dance. It may be “traditional” and “historical” but more apropos, it’s “electric” and “captivating.”
Dr. Michael White Live kicks off with the energetic “Canal Street Blues,” and segues straight into “I Love You Too Much To Ever Leave You” with the inimitable vocals of White’s long-time collaborator and trumpeter/vocalist, Gregory Stafford. White brings the audience to a warm island with “Caribbean Girl,” and the show only gets better from there. White brings fellow Basin Street labelmate, and resident prodigy Jason Marsalis to the drum set to accompany on the final two songs. A hush goes through the room, and more than a few jaws drop with the sultry rendition of the audience favorite and Gershwin classic, “Summertime.” White and his comrades leave nothing on the floor, wrapping up the set with the downright raucous “Give It Up / Gypsy Second Line,” a Michael White original.
If you were there, you witnessed a show for the ages; something you won’t ever forget. If not, you have a chance to experience a piece of what this special night entailed. Listen to Dr. Michael White Live now, and let yourself fall under his trance.

Dr. Michael White Live (Clips)

Basin Street Records have teamed up with the talented, young phenom Kevin Gullage and his band of Blues Groovers to bring you Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed Blues. You may recognize that inimitable smile on the front cover, as Kevin Gullage recently graced the stages of ABC’s American Idol, wowing the judges, advancing to Hollywood, and making it to the final 50 contestants. While he won’t be the next American Idol, Kevin is motoring forward with the release of his first full-length LP, several tour dates, and a residency with Disney Cruise Lines. While many were introduced to Kevin Gullage through the Idol stage, the young entertainer has a long resume, and quite the existing following in his hometown of New Orleans. A graduate of the Louis Armstrong Jazz Camp (whose alumni include Jon Batiste, Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews, and “Big Sam” Williams), New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, and Loyola University New Orleans—his musical education is outshined only by his practical experience growing up in the orbit of New Orleans legends such as Henry Butler and Davell Crawford, performing on stage with Blues Traveler, appearing in films with Chevy Chase & Wendell Pierce, holding a residency at B.B. King’s Blues Club New Orleans, and being welcomed as an official Hammond artist. Reflecting on his Idol experience Kevin says, “Idol wasn’t the stage meant for me. I could never argue that,” but assures his fans, “I love you all and I promise I will see you soon!” The release of Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed Blues is an integral step in Kevin’s musical mission to bring his music to the world.
There’s a reason the biggest word on the album cover is BLUES; this is the blues album of the year. With a professional polish featuring not only the Blues Groovers, but a large cast of special guests, and ensemble players, this album is full of juicy horn stabs, searing guitar solos, and a whole lot of soul. The apt title gives the listener an idea of what to expect, as the album explores many avenues of blues music with classics such as “Sweet Home Chicago,” which appropriately features Chicago blues-man, Ronnie Baker Brooks on guitar paying homage to the Chicago-blues legacy, and “Ain’t Nobody’s Business if I Do” representing “something old.” Gullage flexes his songwriting chops presenting “something new” with several new original works including “Movin’ On,” “So Called Friends of Mine,” and “My Baby Gave Me The Blues (feat. Norman Sylvester)” With these compositions the young piano-playing singer demonstrates he has the life experience to craft great blues songs. With their bluesified version of the as-made-famous-by Amy Winehouse hit “Valerie” Kevin & the Blues Groovers show they are comfortable borrowing songs from any genre to lay down some blues. The album is rounded out with a Little Milton blues anthem performed by many blues bands the world over, and a statement anyone can get behind, “The Blues is Alright.”
Pick up a copy of Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed Blues from Basin Street Records, at your favorite independent music store, or any online service. Available July 15, 2022.

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed Blues (Clips)

Basin Street Records Label Sampler

“Bonerama is viewed by some as one of the most genuine, unique and interesting bands to come from the Crescent City, incorporating brass, funk, soul, rock, blues and alternative into their one-of-a-kind sound. Three trombones, plus sousaphone, guitar and drums all deliver powerful sounds that you have to hear to believe.” – Relix Magazine

Included in “New Orleans Jazz Fest 2018: The 7 Best Things We Saw” – Rolling Stone

Anybody who’s been to a Bonerama live show is no stranger to the band laying down some funked-up, brassy renditions of classic rock songs. Fans of those moments are in for a treat, because the band is gifting the world an album of nothing but Led Zeppelin covers. Bonerama Plays Zeppelin is exactly what you think it is, a collection of your favorite songs from the greatest rock band of all time covered by the greatest trombone band of all time. If you have any doubt that a Trombone-centric band can really rock, pick a tune at random from this release, and be defied. Whether it be the lava-hot vocals on “Black Dog”, the distorted wah-wah trombone replacing the traditional guitar on “In My Time of Dying”, or even a surreal lightning-fast sousaphone solo on the funkified version of “Heartbreaker,” Bonerama proves they can rock with the best of them.
Known the world over for its incendiary live performances, Bonerama has been bringing its specialized brand of New Orleans music to the masses for over 20 years. Bonerama is currently comprised of Mark Mullins (trombone, electric trombone and lead vocals), Craig Klein (trombone and lead vocals), Greg Hicks (trombone and vocals), Bert Cotton (guitar), Matt Perrine (sousaphone and electric bass) and Walt Lundy (drums and vocals).
The album comes to you from New Orleans stalwart label, Basin Street Records, the second on the label following 2017’s Hot Like Fire. It was produced by Mark Mullins, Craig Klein and Tracey Freeman, recorded at Music Shed Recording Studios in New Orleans, and features outstanding original artwork re-imagining the classic Zeppelin symbology by Molly Reeves.
Pre-Order on iTunes or from Basin Street Records to instantly get “Good Times Bad Times!” Buy a physical CD or buy from Basin Street Records directly to receive a free download of “The Ocean.”

Bonerama Plays Zeppelin

Happy Talk is Kermit Ruffins' newest release following an unforgettable performance as himself in the first season of 'Tremé,' HBO's acclaimed new drama series. Lifted into the national spotlight by the hit television show, Kermit keeps the momentum swinging with his first big band album.

Hey Look Me Over, from Kermit Ruffins' Happy Talk CD

A.P. Touro

Let's Go Get 'Em

Ain't Misbehavin'

Innan Du Gar

Minor Changes

Sure, Jeremy Davenport is "easy on the eyes," as Cosmo magazine points out, but it s his vibrant trumpet and classic crooning that won over the likes of Wynton Marsalis, Paul McCartney, Sting, and Harry Connick, Jr. Pairing up with fellow prominent New Orleanians Basin Street Records, Davenport is set to win even more hearts of fans with his fourth release, We'll Dance 'Til Dawn.

Jeremy Davenport is no stranger to the jazz world. Raised in St. Louis by a music educator mother, and trombonist father, who performs in the St. Louis Philharmonic Orchestra, his love of the music and performing arts were in his blood. So much so that in the eighth grade his father arranged an auspicious introduction to trumpet idol Wynton Marsalis that would change his life forever. A merit scholar at the prestigious Manhattan School of music, Davenport began private study with Raymond Mase and Wynton Marsalis. He went on to study at the University of New Orleans with the patriarch of the Marsalis family, music educator and jazz pianist Ellis Marsalis.

Davenport was honored to become the youngest performer on four world tours with Harry Connick Jr.'s Big Band, after being introduced to Connick by Ellis. Coming off tour in 1989, he finally settled in New Orleans, and has been a well-respected member of the New Orleans family ever since, including being inducted into the New Orleans Jazz Hall of Fame in 2000. 

Mr. New Orleans

Come Rain Or Come Shine

Got To Be More Careful, from Jon Cleary's Pin Your Spin

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed Blues

My Baby Gave Me The Blues (feat. Norman Sylvester)

Valerie

Ain't Nobody's Business If I Do

Grits Ain't Groceries

So Called Friends of Mine

Sweet Home Chicago (feat. Ronnie Baker Brooks)

Movin' On (feat. Ronnie Baker Brooks)

Shakey Ground

New Orleans has a long musical history and the new Putumayo collection New Orleans captures the ambiance of this city where jazz was born. The musical traditions that New Orleans has nurtured are legendary, but music is not just the stuff of legend there. In the city’s streets, it is a vibrant, ever-evolving art form. New artists regularly learn from their predecessors, and inject those lessons with fresh energy and ideas.

For New Orleans, Putumayo founder Dan Storper researched traditional jazz and blues in forms both old and new after becoming a part time resident of New Orleans in 2003. The collection includes legends Louis Armstrong, Louis Prima, Doc Cheatham, Dr. John and the Preservation Hall Hot 4 with Duke Dejan alongside local favorites Nicholas Payton, Kermit Ruffins, Deacon John, Dr. Michael White, Topsy Chapman, Kevin Clark and Greg Stafford.

The descriptive liner notes, written by New Orleans musicologist Baty Landis, are in English, French and Spanish. They feature striking photographs by respected New Orleans photographer Michael Smith, as well as a resource guide for New Orleans music, travel and entertainment. Renowned New Orleans chef Paul Prudhomme has a contributed a recipe for seafood gumbo. 

Basin Street Blues (Louis Prima)

Coming June 24, 2014 on CD, 150g deluxe vinyl and by download, the follow up to Rebirth Brass Band's Grammy winning Rebirth of New Orleans: Move Your Body. It will keep the party going! Also look out for the release on 150g deluxe vinyl that same day of Rebirth of New Orleans!

Who's Rockin', Who's Rollin'

Move Your Body, from Rebirth Brass Band's Move Your Body

Following 2013’s In A World of Mallets (hitting #1 on JazzWeek radio charts), the youngest of New Orleans’ Marsalis Jazz dynasty, Jason Marsalis, is back with his second Vibes Quartet release, The 21st Century Trad Band.

Backed once again by Will Goble on bass, Austin Johnson on piano, and David Potter on drums, The 21st Century Trad Band puts a spotlight on the growing synergy between these young and talented musicians.

With songs like “Offbeat Personality” Marsalis takes us on a journey through a complex arrangement combining hard-swinging sections with more melodic interludes, unexpected turn-arounds, and an introspective outro. While songs like “The Man With Two Left Feet” and the titular track play with the trad jazz idiom in a contemporary modality. What’s clear throughout the album is the developed control the band has cultivated through further years of playing together; the unspoken communication is evident.

As with previous albums, Marsalis continues his “Discipline” series accompanying himself on a variety of mallet-based instruments including Marimba, Glockenspiel, Tubular Bells, Vibraphone, and Xylophone, further establishing his voice as a mallet-player with the off-kilter blues of “Discipline Meets the Offbeat One” and several interludes with unusual rhythmic patterns and meters.

In addition to including original compositions from his band mates, Marsalis has taken a step further in encouraging the vanguard of the next generation of jazz by including compositions of the young New Orleans musicians Cliff Hines (“Interzone”) and Jasen Weaver (“Blues for Now”), both graduates of the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts.

The shear amount of music, seamless interludes, and a track reflecting on the BP Oil Spill,“BP Shakedown” are testaments to Marsalis’ serious nature towards his work. But just as he touched on playful, uncharted territory with In A World of Mallets’ “Ballet Class” he explores a film noire theme with “Nights in Brooklyn”.

Banjoist Bela Fleck has praised Marsalis for “brilliant ideas that sound as if he’s played them his whole life, but are really coming off the top of his head.” The NEA Jazzmaster stated himself that his last record was “the beginning of a new chapter.” It’s clear The 21st Century Trad Band is a continuation of that chapter, and it’s full of those “brilliant ideas” for which the bandleader has become known.


Love Always Comes As A Surprise (Bonus Track)

The Grammy and Billboard award winning trumpeter and bandleader, Irvin Mayfield, debuts his first album of holiday music with A New Orleans Creole Christmas, a collection of timeless holiday classics reinterpreted by the widely-recorded cultural ambassador of New Orleans. With his 12th release on the New Orleans source for jazz, Basin Street Records, Mayfield demonstrates his maturity as a player and arranger with the handpicked small ensemble called The New Orleans Jazz Playhouse Revue. The album blends traditional-style playing on the upbeat rendition of “O Tannenbaum – O Christmas Tree” with soulful, gospel-inspired versions of “Silent Night” and “Winter Wonderland”, and melodic, modern jazz renditions of other favorites such as “The Christmas Song” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”. Michael Watson graces the listener with his velvet singing voice on the Vince Guaraldi/Lee Mendelson classic, “Christmas Time is Here”.

A New Orleans Creole Christmas was recorded at Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz Playhouse on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Recording on a street famed as the origin of Jazz, the Grammy-winning artist continues his mission of placing Jazz at the center of American culture and advancing a time-honored tradition in a city known for its music.

A New Orleans Creole Christmas is sure to delight the serious jazz listener and families looking to enjoy a fresh take on their favorite Christmas melodies, as they spend time together this holiday season.

Accolades of Irvin Mayfield:
Irvin Mayfield is the New Orleans Cultural Ambassador, the youngest member (and only musician) of the National Council on the Arts (named by two presidents), a two-time Grammy nominee, a Grammy-Award-winner (Book One, 2010), a Billboard Music Award winner (Los Hombres Calientes, 2000), founder and artistic director of the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, the first artistic director of jazz of the Minnesota Orchestra, and holder of an honorary doctorate from Dillard University among other honors and accolades.


O Tannenbaum - O Christmas Tree, from Irvin Mayfield's A New Orleans Creole Christmas

In celebration of their 20th anniversary, Basin Street Records has announced forthcoming the collaborative album between its two most recorded artists, Kermit Ruffins and Irvin Mayfield, A Beautiful World, out October 13. 

A Beautiful World is a collaboration between two friends, Kermit Ruffins, the big easy ambassador of good times and Rebirth Brass Band co-founder, who has appeared on HBO’s Treme, Bravo’s Top Chef, Late Night with Stephen Colbert, and the soundtrack for Disney’s Jungle Book in a duet with Bill Murray and backing Christopher Walken, and Irvin Mayfield, two-time Grammy-award winner, Billboard Music Award-winner, author, and producer. Combined, the two musicians share a staggering output of nearly fifty records, the majority released on Basin Street Records, an international independent music powerhouse that asked its two most recorded artists to collaborate on this centerpiece of the label’s 20th anniversary celebration. A Beautiful World is the ultimate party in record form. Producer Mayfield worked tirelessly to translate the eclectic soul of Kermit Ruffins to twenty-six tracks. On the process of making the album, Ruffins explains, “Good food and good music are my passions. I wanted to make a record people could eat.”

Mayfield realized that vision by bringing in 57 musicians arranged in four configurations built around a jazz structure: big band, traditional jazz marching band, chamber orchestra and an amended funk ensemble. Some Basin Street Records artists joined to accomplish this goal: The king of New Orleans brass, Rebirth Brass Band; the professorial clarinetist Dr. Michael White; the musical genius, Jason Marsalis; and world-renowned percussionist, Bill Summers. Other notable featured artists include: Haley Reinhart of American Idol, Cyril Neville (of the Meters and Neville Brothers), New Orleans bass legend George Porter Jr. (of The Meters and countless other bands), Tremé-crooner John Boutté, the inimitable and monstrous voice of Glen David Andrews, The King of Tremé Shannon Powell, a nine-piece string ensemble, and the silky-smooth spoken word bass of New Orleans-born actor Wendell Pierce (USA’s Suits, HBO’s The Wire, HBO’s Tremé).

A Beautiful World will be available on October 13, 2017 on all digital platforms and on CD and Vinyl (includes free digital download)form your local record store.  The album will be available on physical in new Orleans October 13, 2017. Additionally, in conjunction with the album, Basin Street Records will release a companion graphic novel by writer Amen Neville—more details to come soon. Finally, a documentary about Kermit Ruffins is also in the works, and is slated for a 2018 release.

A Beautiful World

When the Saints Go Marching In

Trumpet Bounce

Do Whatcha Wanna Interlude (feat. Rebirth Brass Band)

Move On Ahead (feat. Jolynda "Kiki" Chapman)

Mystic

Good Morning New Orleans

Don't Worry Be Happy (feat. Jason Marsalis, Cyril Neville, Haley Reinhart, Glen David Andrews)

Drop Me Off In New Orleans (feat. Dr. Michael White)

Well, Alright

From Los Hombres Calientes' Volume 5: Carnival CD. What a party! Special bonus: Listen to the WHOLE SONG here. 

The Mardi Gras Second Line (with Kermit Ruffins, Rebirth Brass Band, Trombone Shorty)

In celebration of their 20th anniversary, Basin Street Records has announced forthcoming the collaborative album between its two most recorded artists, Kermit Ruffins and Irvin Mayfield, A Beautiful World, out nationally October 13, pre-orders (including signed copies) available now on BasinStreetRecords.com, physical product (CD, Vinyl) available in New Orleans area September 22.

A Beautiful World is a collaboration between two friends, Kermit Ruffins, the big easy ambassador of good times and Rebirth Brass Band co-founder, who has appeared on HBO’s Treme, Bravo’s Top Chef, Late Night with Stephen Colbert, and the soundtrack for Disney’s Jungle Book in a duet with Bill Murray and backing Christopher Walken, and Irvin Mayfield, two-time Grammy-award winner, Billboard Music Award-winner, author, and producer. Combined, the two musicians share a staggering output of nearly fifty records, the majority released on Basin Street Records, an international independent music powerhouse that asked its two most recorded artists to collaborate on this centerpiece of the label’s 20th anniversary celebration. A Beautiful World is the ultimate party in record form. Producer Mayfield worked tirelessly to translate the eclectic soul of Kermit Ruffins to twenty-six tracks. On the process of making the album, Ruffins explains, “Good food and good music are my passions. I wanted to make a record people could eat.”

Mayfield realized that vision by bringing in 57 musicians arranged in four configurations built around a jazz structure: big band, traditional jazz marching band, chamber orchestra and an amended funk ensemble. Some Basin Street Records artists joined to accomplish this goal: The king of New Orleans brass, Rebirth Brass Band; the professorial clarinetist Dr. Michael White; the musical genius, Jason Marsalis; and world-renowned percussionist, Bill Summers. Other notable featured artists include: Haley Reinhart of American Idol, Cyril Neville (of the Meters and Neville Brothers), New Orleans bass legend George Porter Jr. (of The Meters and countless other bands), Tremé-crooner John Boutté, the inimitable and monstrous voice of Glen David Andrews, The King of Tremé Shannon Powell, a nine-piece string ensemble, and the silky-smooth spoken word bass of New Orleans-born actor Wendell Pierce (USA’s Suits, HBO’s The Wire, HBO’s Tremé).

A Beautiful World will be available nationally on October 13, 2017 on all digital platforms and on CD and Vinyl (includes free digital download) at your local record store. Available for pre-order (including signed copies) from BasinStreetRecords.com now, physical product (CD, Vinyl) available in New Orleans area September 22. Additionally, in conjunction with the album, Basin Street Records plans to release a graphic novel by writer Amen Neville—more details to come soon. Finally, a documentary about Kermit Ruffins is also in the works, and is slated for a 2018 release.

Drop Me Off In New Orleans from Kermit Ruffins' & Irvin Mayfield's A Beautiful World

After four years since their last recording Shake It Baby, New Orleans Brass & Rollers Bonerama return with their seventh album Hot Like Fire on CD November 24, 2017 and out digitally October 6, 2017, their first to be released by independent music powerhouse, Basin Street Records.
Formed in New Orleans in 1998, by trombone players Mark Mullins and Craig Klein (who from 1990 -2006, were also members of Harry Connick Jr.'s big band), Bonerama bills itself as a brass/funk/rock band but Bonerama is much more than that. Bonerama is a New Orleans musical institution. They are one of the most genuine, unique and interesting bands to have ever come out of the Crescent City. Bonerama incorporates jazz, brass, funk, fusion, soul, pop, rock, blues, a touch of alternative and even a bit of reggae into its one-of-a-kind sound. Three trombones front the band, plus a sousaphone, guitar and drums all delivering a powerful sound that you have to hear to believe.
Known the world over for its incendiary live performances, Bonerama has been bringing its specialized brand of New Orleans music to the masses for 20 years. Bonerama is currently comprised of Mullins (trombone, electric trombone and lead vocals), Klein (trombone and lead vocals), Greg Hicks (trombone and vocals), Bert Cotton (guitar), Matt Perrine (sousaphone and electric bass) and Walt Lundy (drums).
Hot Like Fire finds Bonerama developing its dynamic, high-energy, fun, happy and bold moods further than ever before. The New Orleans stalwarts deliver nine wonderfully brassy musical landscapes--seven of which are original compositions (including the concert staple "Mr. Okra") along with powerful covers of Radiohead's "Paranoid Android" and the late Allen Toussaint's "Basic Lady."  The album was produced by Mark Mullins, Craig Klein and Tracey Freeman and recorded at Music Shed Recording Studios in New Orleans.

Hot Like Fire

Bad Dog from Bonerama's Hot Like Fire

Saràyah, a young vocalist and artist out of New Orleans, LA, is poised to make her mark on the pop music scene. Spurred by the support of a musical family, after years of performing and honing her skills in various groups in New Orleans, and under the direction of manager, T.A. Charlot, she has partnered with record label Basin Street Records to create her debut album Feel The Vibe. On the album she demonstrates her talent not only as confident vocalist but also as a skilled songwriter, penning lyrics to nine original songs.

She carves her own niche in the pop music world by incorporating a polished voice with elements of club/dance music, worldbeat, Caribbean inflections (reflecting her roots performing in New Orleans groups), and R&B to form an Ariana Grande meets Rihanna meets Kehlani sound. Citing Rihanna and Bob Marley as influences, she is primed to follow in their footsteps to rise through the ranks of various music charts and establish herself as a leading crossover artist.

The leading single from Feel The Vibe “Give Me Love” combines a heavy club beat with subtle trumpet accents and introduces Saràyah to the world as the versatile vocalist that she is with breathy, ethereal calls in Spanish contrasting effortless syncopated verses featuring her understated Caribbean accent. Listeners will begin to feel the vibe of the album after hearing “That Vibe”. “Fire & Ice” finds her voice in its full pop element over a sultry beat with an unforgettable hook in the chorus. “We Party” will find its home at the VIP tables and rooms of clubs across the world, and when club goers are ready to hit the dance floor “Gimme Dat Work” will not disappoint.

Feel The Vibe

Give Me Love from Saràyah's Feel The Vibe

Davell Crawford, the “Piano Prince of New Orleans,” released the first volume of a six part set entitled Piano in the Vaults during New Orleans Jazz Fest on Basin Street Records. The set is a collection of solo recordings done by the piano/vocalist phenom between 1998-2013, and it solidifies his position as the modern torchbearer of New Orleans piano music.

A follow-up to his eclectic and heavily-orchestrated My Gift To You (2013, Basin Street Records), Piano in the Vaults, Vol. 1 highlights Crawford’s raw talent as a performer saturated with the soul and history of New Orleans music. A native son of the Crescent City, Crawford’s ties to the music go back to his relationship with his grandfather, the New Orleans songwriter, James “Sugarboy” Crawford of “Jock-A-Mo” fame. Aside from his familial ties, it is evident Crawford draws inspiration from the long lineage of New Orleans piano players including Jelly Roll Morton, Fats Domino, Professor Longhair, Allen Toussaint, and James Booker—a recent French Quarter Fest performance saw him sticking to a New Orleans-music exclusive set featuring music by many of the above in addition to his own original compositions that carry on the iconic New Orleans sound infused with his inimitable soul. Crawford will continue with a string of performances in New Orleans including opening for The O’Jays at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival Opening Gala, as well as multiple performances at Jazz Fest itself.

Piano in the Vaults, Vol. 1 demonstrates a continuation of New Orleans tradition by opening with two tracks in tribute to the piano player Crawford has drawn the most comparison, James Booker, a musician who has shared the title “Piano Prince of New Orleans.” “Song for James” plays like a true tribute in the enigmatic style of Booker full of jaunty trills and a strutting bass line while “Booker Days” is a slower ode to the late piano player, where Crawford pines for the opportunity to hear him play.

Crawford pays tribute again to his grandfather, James “Sugarboy” Crawford by playing two songs he co-penned with songwriter Dave Bartholomew, the instrumental “Morning Star” and the heartfelt “You Gave Me Love.” The album features one playful duet with the song “Fine Brown Frame” featuring the Louisiana blues singer and NEA Heritage Fellow, Carol Fran, who also shares a familial tie to Crawford as his mother’s godmother.

“Buddy Bolden’s Blues” written by the iconic father of New Orleans piano music, Jelly Roll Morton, the classic story telling song, “Nobody Knows You When You’re Down and Out” (a song previously recorded by New Orleans string legend, Danny Barker), and “Make Me A Pallet On The Floor” bring to mind turn of the century New Orleans—cabarets, Storyville brothels, seedy barrooms, and all. One can envision Crawford’s music seamlessly fitting in such a venue 100 years ago.

Davell delights with original tunes in the vein of the New Orleans tradition such as “What Is A Home Without A Mother?”—a nod to that so important family member, “Baby Please Be True,” and the vintage sounding “Teana Titty.” Crawford ends the album on a chord he’s become known for—the sentimental one—with a soulful cover of yet another Louisiana artist, Percy Mayfield, with the hit “Please Send Me Someone to Love.”

Piano in the Vaults, Vol. 1 secures Davell Crawford’s role as a tour-de-force of the New Orleans piano tradition with a unique vocal talent. Listeners of Piano in the Vaults, Vol. 1 will have no trouble listing Crawford’s name in the short list of truly great New Orleans piano players.

Piano in the Vaults: Volume 1

Piano in the Vaults, Vol. 1

Song for James from Davell Crawford's Piano in the Vaults, Vol. 1

Jason Marsalis, the consummate drummer turned mallet-master, returns this January with Melody Reimagined: book 1 the first in a series that finds the New Orleans-born phenom in his element writing, producing, and arranging all original music that is deeply informed by not only the rich tradition of jazz, but a wide understanding and appreciation of music in general. The youngest member of and NEA Jazz Master with his musical family, Marsalis has proven his genius and dedication to the art form of jazz by first establishing himself as a world class drummer, and then completely reinventing himself as a master on the vibraphone and other mallet instruments in the mold of greats such as Milt Jackson and Bobby Hutcherson. In fact, he has been selected as a featured artist to tour with the legendary Lionel Hampton Big Band to share the music of the legendary bandleader. An all-around musical polymath, it is a true treat to hear Marsalis perform a whistle-solo, or demonstrate his perfect pitch—he recently made his debut on vocals singing a low bass line on the Kermit Ruffins/Irvin Mayfield produced track “Don’t Worry Be Happy” in addition to providing vibraphone, marimba, whistle, woodblocks, shakers, snaps, claps, and chest drum.

Those familiar with Marsalis’ recent work such as 2014’s The 21st Century Trad Band and 2013’s In A World of Mallets (that hit #1 on JazzWeek radio charts) will recognize his solid band formerly dubbed The Jason Marsalis Vibes Quartet, and now called The 21st Century Trad Band with Austin Johnson on piano, Will Goble on bass, and Dave Potter on drums—a group of young, dynamic players that bring a fresh perspective, but who can hang with the elite playing of Marsalis on vibraphone.

The concept of Melody Reimagined grew out of live performances where the band would play a mixture of originals and covers of jazz standards. Frequently, they’d put together spontaneous arrangements of the standards to keep things interesting. The practice of taking the harmonic structure, or chord progressions from one song and writing new melodies has been around throughout jazz history. For example, Duke Ellington’s “In a Mellow Tone” is based on the harmony from “Rose Room,” while Charlie Parker’s “Ornithology” is based on the harmony from “How High the Moon.” For this album, harmonies and chord changes from the American songbook, jazz standards, traditional jazz, and even 1980’s pop music inspire these new pieces. For example, “Passionate Dancer” draws from Michael Sambello’s #1 hit “Maniac” of Flashdance fame. Marsalis makes a mash-up of the structure of two classics—Horace Silver’s “Peace” and Charlie Haden’s “Silence” on “A Peaceful Silence.” And he excellently demonstrates how the inspirations of trad jazz found in much of the music of New Orleans can be used to make truly modern jazz, while also making a point about the misunderstandings of the city’s Mardi Gras celebration with “Bourbon Street Ain’t Mardi Gras.” Jason’s father, Ellis, and brother Delfeayo both make cameos on the beautiful ballad “80” based on the chord progression of “The Very Thought of You,” a touching tribute to the memory of Jason’s mother.

Whether you’re a true scholar of jazz, or simply a casual listener, Melody Reimagined: book 1 offers something for you, as simply an enjoyable album of music, but also something you can spend hours studying and re-listening to catch all its nuance.

Melody Reimagined: book 1

Ratio Man Strikes Again

Dr. Michael White Celebrates 300 Years of New Orleans Music with Tricentennial Rag.
Out April 20, 2018.
The tricentennial of New Orleans is the perfect time to reflect on the culturally rich city’s most important original artistic contribution: jazz. Acclaimed clarinetist Dr. Michael White sets out to do just that on his newest release, Tricentennial Rag. Few people stand as qualified as Dr. White for such a task with a decades-long career as a New Orleans-born musician and accolades including: Heritage Fellow of the National Endowment for the Arts (the nation’s highest award in the traditional and folk arts), six-time winner of Offbeat Magazine’s “Clarinetist of the Year,” Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities Humanist of the Year, The Jazz Hero Award from the Jazz Journalists Association of America, and several TV appearances including performing the National Anthem at the Allstate Sugar Bowl, HBO’s Treme, and many song placements in the CW’s The Originals.
Tricentennial Rag features a “gumbo pot” of song ideas, all of which are originals save the famous “When The Saints Go Marching In,” that span in style from the earliest jazz with Jelly Roll Morton-inspired tunes such as “Mandeville Stomp” that has a ragtime feel spiced with Charleston and Latin rhythms, to “revival-style” up-tempo tunes like “I Saw Jesus Standing in the Water,” to songs like the title track “Tricentennial Rag” which stands in a category of its own as a “modern” 21st century rag by both engaging with and departing from traditional ragtime forms and using an infectious repeated four-bar main section as much influenced by pop music as by early jazz and rags. The eclectic sounds don’t stop there, and other themes include the lively brass band sound reminiscent of New Orleans Carnival parades and activities present on “On Mardi Gras Day,” a medium-tempo blues on “Blues on the Bayou,” and the joyous “flirt song” in the tradition of old pop love songs, “What I Wouldn’t Do To Be With You.”
Dr. Michael White continues to push forward in his mission to keep New Orleans jazz both traditional and fresh on Tricentennial Rag, a satisfying bookend to the first 300 years of New Orleans music, and a launching-point for the next era of both preservation and innovation in the music of the Crescent City.

Tricentennial Rag

5 previously released tunes (from 5 different CDs) from Kermit's other side

03 Hide The Reefer

"Good Times Bad Times (feat. Michael Mullins)" is the lead track off of Bonerama Plays Zeppelin, The upcoming album from Bonerama on Basin Street Records. Out April 26, 2019, available for pre-order February 28, 2019. Get "Good Times Bad Times" instantly when you pre-order from iTunes or the Basin Street Records web store. This track features scorching-hot vocals from none other than Michael Mullins, the 18-year old son of Bonerama frontman, Mark Mullins.

“Bonerama is viewed by some as one of the most genuine, unique and interesting bands to come from the Crescent City, incorporating brass, funk, soul, rock, blues and alternative into their one-of-a-kind sound. Three trombones, plus sousaphone, guitar and drums all deliver powerful sounds that you have to hear to believe.” – Relix Magazine

Included in “New Orleans Jazz Fest 2018: The 7 Best Things We Saw” – Rolling Stone

Anybody who’s been to a Bonerama live show is no stranger to the band laying down some funked-up, brassy renditions of classic rock songs. Fans of those moments are in for a treat, because the band is gifting the world an album of nothing but Led Zeppelin covers. Bonerama Plays Zeppelin is exactly what you think it is, a collection of your favorite songs from the greatest rock band of all time covered by the greatest trombone band of all time. If you have any doubt that a Trombone-centric band can really rock, pick a tune at random from this release, and be defied. Whether it be the lava-hot vocals on “Black Dog”, the distorted wah-wah trombone replacing the traditional guitar on “In My Time of Dying”, or even a surreal lightning-fast sousaphone solo on the funkified version of “Heartbreaker,” Bonerama proves they can rock with the best of them.

Known the world over for its incendiary live performances, Bonerama has been bringing its specialized brand of New Orleans music to the masses for over 20 years. Bonerama is currently comprised of Mark Mullins (trombone, electric trombone and lead vocals), Craig Klein (trombone and lead vocals), Greg Hicks (trombone and vocals), Bert Cotton (guitar), Matt Perrine (sousaphone and electric bass) and Walt Lundy (drums and vocals).
The album comes to you from New Orleans stalwart label, Basin Street Records, the second on the label following 2017’s Hot Like Fire. It was produced by Mark Mullins, Craig Klein and Tracey Freeman, recorded at Music Shed Recording Studios in New Orleans, and features outstanding original artwork re-imagining the classic Zeppelin symbology by Molly Reeves. Buy from Basin Street Records webstore, or get a physical copy to receive the bonus track “The Ocean”!
Come out for the CD release party April 19, 2019 at Tipitina’s (under new musician-owned management)!
Pre-Order on iTunes or from Basin Street Records to instantly get “Good Times Bad Times!” Buy a physical CD or buy from Basin Street Records directly to receive a free download of “The Ocean.”

Good Times Bad Times (feat. Michael Mullins) from Bonerama Plays Zeppelin

“Bonerama is viewed by some as one of the most genuine, unique and interesting bands to come from the Crescent City, incorporating brass, funk, soul, rock, blues and alternative into their one-of-a-kind sound. Three trombones, plus sousaphone, guitar and drums all deliver powerful sounds that you have to hear to believe.” – Relix Magazine

Included in “New Orleans Jazz Fest 2018: The 7 Best Things We Saw” – Rolling Stone

Anybody who’s been to a Bonerama live show is no stranger to the band laying down some funked-up, brassy renditions of classic rock songs. Fans of those moments are in for a treat, because the band is gifting the world an album of nothing but Led Zeppelin covers. Bonerama Plays Zeppelin is exactly what you think it is, a collection of your favorite songs from the greatest rock band of all time covered by the greatest trombone band of all time. If you have any doubt that a Trombone-centric band can really rock, pick a tune at random from this release, and be defied. Whether it be the lava-hot vocals on “Black Dog”, the distorted wah-wah trombone replacing the traditional guitar on “In My Time of Dying”, or even a surreal lightning-fast sousaphone solo on the funkified version of “Heartbreaker,” Bonerama proves they can rock with the best of them.
Known the world over for its incendiary live performances, Bonerama has been bringing its specialized brand of New Orleans music to the masses for over 20 years. Bonerama is currently comprised of Mark Mullins (trombone, electric trombone and lead vocals), Craig Klein (trombone and lead vocals), Greg Hicks (trombone and vocals), Bert Cotton (guitar), Matt Perrine (sousaphone and electric bass) and Walt Lundy (drums and vocals).
The album comes to you from New Orleans stalwart label, Basin Street Records, the second on the label following 2017’s Hot Like Fire. It was produced by Mark Mullins, Craig Klein and Tracey Freeman, recorded at Music Shed Recording Studios in New Orleans, and features outstanding original artwork re-imagining the classic Zeppelin symbology by Molly Reeves.
Pre-Order on iTunes or from Basin Street Records to instantly get “Good Times Bad Times!” Buy a physical CD or buy from Basin Street Records directly to receive a free download of “The Ocean.”
Come on out for the CD Release Party at Tipitina’s, April 19, 2019 at 10:00 PM.

In My Time Of Dying

Living Loving Maid (She's Just A Woman)

Heartbreaker

Black Dog

Good Times Bad Times

Bonerama Collaborates with Michael McDonald Paying Tribute to Allen Toussaint with “Empty World”
Out October 4, 2019 on Basin Street Records
Available for Pre-Order September 24, 2019

The epic Trombone-focused band, Bonerama has teamed up with renowned vocalist Michael McDonald to bring you “Empty World,” a heartfelt tribute to Allen Toussaint and the many lost New Orleans legends.

“By blending the world’s finest trombone section with the deeply soulful vocals of Michael McDonald, Bonerama has cooked up a brilliant jambalaya that will be savored for a long time to come!"
— Don Was - President, Blue Note Records / Founder, Was (Not Was)

“Empty World” is dedicated to Allen Toussaint, the prolific legendary New Orleans producer and musician who impacted the lives of many New Orleans musicians including those of Bonerama. The lyrics reference Toussaint's songs, paint a picture of the kind person he was, and express sadness of him no longer being with us. The song also has an alternate meaning as a dedication to all of New Orleans lost legends.

Lyrics:
A true soul sister, New Orleans mister
It was a bright and shiny day
I took the last train to catch your song
I get there anyhow, anyway
The brightest star on a hot southern night
So much love, so much love

The people worldwide have you in mind
They say you’re thoughtful and you’re kind
(He’s got the sweetness and kindness)
Never thought we’d lose you
(Can’t you stick around, stick around forever)
The whisper came
(Won’t you stay around, don’t you leave us ever)
And all the happiness that you bring
(Sweetness and kindness)
Rejuvenation with imagination
So much love, so much love

Take me down (won’t you take me)
Take me down (won’t you take me)
To the river running wild in your name

Take me down (won’t you take me)
Lay me down (won’t you take me)
To the river running wild, as the sun sets on your soul
(Stick around forever)
Now you’re gone, it’s an empty, empty world

(Stick around forever)
(Don’t you leave us ever)
(Can’t you stick around, stick around forever)
(Won’t you stay around, don’t you leave us ever)

The king of all, the king of our world
So much love, so much love

Take me down (won’t you take me)
Take me down (won’t you take me)
To the river running wild in your name

Take me down (won’t you take me)
Lay me down (won’t you take me)
To the river running wild, as the sun sets on your soul
(Stick around forever)
Now you’re gone, it’s an empty, empty world

It’s an empty, empty world

Empty World (feat. Michael McDonald)

Empty World (feat. Michael McDonald) - Bonerama

Just What the Doctor Ordered: Dr. Michael White Live. Out on Basin Street Records April 17, 2020.
For nearly 45 years, Dr. Michael White has been bringing smiles to faces with his joy-filled, masterful clarinet-playing in the tradition of New Orleans jazz. May 5, 2017 was a special night in this storied career. In an evening celebrating Basin Street Records’ 20th anniversary, Dr. Michael White and his quartet (plus special guest Jason Marsalis) captivated an audience at the packed Little Gem Saloon with forty minutes of his mesmerizing performance. A Michael White show is more than a concert, it’s an experience. Like a siren in the sea, the first dulcet tones from White’s clarinet immediately draw the listener in; what ensues is nothing short of magic, a performance steeped in tradition—one that perhaps wouldn’t sound out of place in the very same venue in the 1920s—but full of luster and originality—something that makes you want to get up and dance. It may be “traditional” and “historical” but more apropos, it’s “electric” and “captivating.”
Dr. Michael White Live kicks off with the energetic “Canal Street Blues,” and segues straight into “I Love You Too Much To Ever Leave You” with the inimitable vocals of White’s long-time collaborator and trumpeter/vocalist, Gregory Stafford. White brings the audience to a warm island with “Caribbean Girl,” and the show only gets better from there. White brings fellow Basin Street labelmate, and resident prodigy Jason Marsalis to the drum set to accompany on the final two songs. A hush goes through the room, and more than a few jaws drop with the sultry rendition of the audience favorite and Gershwin classic, “Summertime.” White and his comrades leave nothing on the floor, wrapping up the set with the downright raucous “Give It Up / Gypsy Second Line,” a Michael White original.
If you were there, you witnessed a show for the ages; something you won’t ever forget. If not, you have a chance to experience a piece of what this special night entailed. Listen to Dr. Michael White Live now, and let yourself fall under his trance.

Dr. Michael White Live

Give It Up (Gypsy Second Line)

Summertime

Carribean Girl

I Love You Too Much To Ever Leave You

Canal Street Blues

Coming May 28, 2013 on Basin Street Records. Join us at Tipitina's in New Orleans on June 8th for the CD Release Party! For complete tour dates click on www.BasinStreetRecords.com/on-tour/kermit-ruffins

12 When The Saints Go Marching In

Basin Street Records is a New Orleans based record label.  We are the label home to music from: Kermit Ruffins, Los Hombres Calientes, Jason Marsalis, Irvin Mayfield, Dr. Michael White, Jon Cleary, Henry Butler, Theresa Andersson, The Headhunters, Jeremy Davenport, Rebirth Brass Band, Davell Crawford, Saràyah, and Bonerama. Established 1997.

BasinStreetRecords

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