Throwback

by Scott YanowKermit Ruffins had a reunion with the Rebirth Brass Band for this 2005 release. Ruffins dominates the music to an extent, contributing the majority of the selections, usually taking a vocal and adding a few spectacular trumpet solos. His good-humored description on "What Is New Orleans, Pt. 2" now sounds nostalgic and a bit wistful since this was recorded right before Hurricane Katrina, and it unintentionally describes what is lost and will hopefully return someday. The Rebirth Brass Band are in fine form, particularly the mighty tuba playing of Philip Frazier. Most of the performances are celebratory and perfect party music (other than the annoying closing rap "Up in tha Hood"), soulful yet tied to the brass band tradition while still looking ahead. Recommended.