According to trumpeter Raymond Williams’ biography, he was given the nickname “Dr. Rackle” by his mentor Jackie McLean as a title for his group of “Sound Griots,” or musical sages, and has been an integral part of shaping and arranging the Hot 8 sound of the streets into a Grammy nominated work of art, earning himself the second nickname, “The Fine Tuner.”
Read MoreFrom the Kermit Ruffins album, #imsoneworleans
Read MoreDanny Barker, Uncle Lionel Batiste, Tuba Fats Anthony Lacen, Louis Armstrong, Fats Domino, Professor Longhair, Rebirth Brass Band, Trombone Shorty, Ms. Germaine Bazzle… Kermit Ruffins’ bravado is a tribute to the musicians who shaped the trumpeter’s BBQ-swingin’ style. And following in his footsteps is trombonist Haruka Kikuchi, formerly of Tokyo and now she’s so New Orleans.
Read MoreWhether it was his intention or not, Jon Blondell’s performance on Sublime’s “Wrong Way” defined the third wave of ska music.
Read MoreYet it’s Klein’s scat vocal solo that really shines because we all knew that he could play the trombone. So when he effortlessly tips his hat to the First Lady of Song, he’s flirting. Oh, Craig Klein Be Good!
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