Adrian Mears - New Orleans Hard Bop

KingCake 2012:

I put this one up 2 or 3 years ago but I think it can stand another run. The name of this band may throw you off as I don't really associate their music with any New Orleans style and the only member with any connection to here is drummer Jeff Boudreaux who went to Loyola with my friend Scott. The music does, however, borrow elements of New Orleans jazz and it also shares the fundemental aspect of being a whole lot of fun.

Mears is another lesser known modern trombone player of remarkable talent,which also connects this post to the earlier Marty Cook post, even if the music isn't all that similar.

I can't tell you much about the players as I simply don't know them beyond Mears being Dutch and Boudreaux being from Louisianna. The only player I have any other experience with is pianst Peter Madsen whom I know through his fascinating 'Snuggling Snakes' album.

I've been giving the album a spin while I write and I find each song a fresh and entertaining ride with both strong solo and ensemble playing. I spend so much time listening to older music that it is a joy to find something modern that both grabs and holds my attention. Don't pass this one up!