New Orleans is often referred to as the home of American Jazz, and still to this day, the city continues to be a strong supporter of American Jazz music and Jazz musicians. The idea for this album was planted in Delfeayo many years ago arising out of a conversation between Trombonist, Composer and NEA Jazz Master Delfeayo Marsalis and Composer and Drummer Max Roach. Marsalis recalls, "Max told me, 'When I look around, I see greatness everywhere. I see greatness in the postman who shows up every day to deliver mail, and in the teacher who is serious about teaching these kids.' That one conversation changed my perception of the world that we live in and how best to represent it in my music." Crescent City Jewels is Marsalis' effort to capture the present and past heroes of the New Orleans Jazz scene. I believe Marsalis achieved his missions. Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra have put together a marvelous group of songs that capture the essence of New Orleans Jazz and the City itself. The CD expresses the bandleader's appreciation for the good things in life. According to Marsalis, "What the Jazz community needs right now are bands that can bring joy and optimism. We not only need it for the audiences, but other bands need to hear it. There are so many bands that play what they consider to be modern music which may not be the most uplifting experience for the audience. I feel very fortunate that I have a band, especially coming out of New Orleans, that can bring that emotion and joy." I totally agree with Marsalis so let's get the party started. Crescent City Jewels brings together some of the finest Jazz musicians performing today and gifted them material from a variety of sources. Marsalis has joined Jazz standards, great new originals, classic by legendary figures like Thelonious Monk and Joe Henderson, and a few musical jewels from the Crescent City songbook. And to finish the deal, he featured the band's soulful longtime singer, Tonya Boyd-Cannon.
I have selected two songs for you to hear. The first is a Marsalis original titled "Sidewalk Sizzle" and this funky tune really does sizzle. Great playing by all and outstanding arrangement. The second song is the Monk classic, "Round Midnight" sung brilliantly by Tonya Boyd-Cannon. Enjoy!
PLAYERS:
Trombones
Delfeayo Marsalis- Trombone, Arrangements, Leader
Terrance "Hollywood" Taplin, Charles Williams, TJ Norris, Ethan Santos
Saxophones: Khari Allen Lee, Aaron Narcisse, Khris Royal, Scott Johnson, Shaena Ryan, Trevarri Huff-Boone, Alonzo Bowers, Branford Marsalis, Roderick Johnson
Gregory "Speedo" Agid- Clarinet
Trumpets: Scott Frack, Andrew Baham, John Grey, Ashlin Parker, John Culbreth, Lynn Grissett
Piano: Kyle Roussel, Shea Pierre, Victor Campbell, Davell Crawford
FEATURING: Tonya Boyd-Cannon, Kermit Ruffins, Brandford Marsalis, Davell Crawford, Maurice "Meaux" Trosclair, Aaron Narcisse, Andrew Baham, Chris Severin, Herlin Riley
