Funeral for a Friend

iTunes Review

After almost thirty years exploring the boundaries of the genre, New Orleans's most famous brass band returns to their roots with Funeral for a Friend, their tenth and most heartfelt album. Dedicated to the late Anthony "Tuba Fats" Lacen, one of the Dirty Dozen's original members, the album reproduces a traditional New Orleans jazz funeral in all its signature pomp. Though it was recorded in the studio, the extraordinary musicianship and seamless flow give the impression of actually marching with the band, from procession to church to graveside, as well as from sorrow to joy to transcendence. From the dirge-like beginning of "Just a Closer Walk With Thee," the music swells and releases with each successive song until it explodes into the wild celebration of "Jesus on the Mainline." Half sassy, half somber, the Storyville blues of "John the Revelator" gives way to the rousing gospel affirmation of "I'll Fly Away." By the concluding strains of "Amazing Grace," there won't be a dry eye in the house. May we all go out with this kind of party.