Certain aspects of the New Orleans music community became apparent to people around the world after Hurricane Katrina blew in five years ago, resulting in the failure of levees and the devastating flooding of the city. John Boutte's passionate rendering of the universal 'We Shall Overcome' that opens On My Way Back Home speaks of the oneness and the healing power of this city's music, it's purveyors and it's faithful fans. Inspired by the caring soul of guitarist/banjoist/vocalist Detroit Brooks, the CD stands as a family album, snapshots of what some might consider disparate musicians who are united by a sense of fellowship, friendship, faith and despite everything, even fun. Simply put, they love each other. Brooks' first conception of the album began fairly soon after the storm when he wrote the lamenting, yet still hopeful 'Broken Pieces/Shattered Dreams.' He dug deep into his and his family's gospel roots on this sincerely delivered, orchestrated piece that tells of great loss and sadness. On his freshly recorded 'On My Way Back Home,' the spirit and rhythm turn upbeat, reflecting the great joy felt by those relishing the prospect of returning to New Orleans. The drums here echo those heard during the 18th century in Congo Square where slaves remembered their homelands and musically called out to a place they once knew. All of the musicians, from the modern blowers including saxophone great Big Chief Donald Harrison, Jr., to the younger members of this strong line-up like drummer Joe Dyson, who wrote the happening jazz tune, 'Make Some Noise,' owe something and share a sense of pulling together through loss with those who drummed, sang, danced, laughed and undoubtedly cried in Congo Square. Those who were brought in chains taught us the art of celebration despite overwhelmingly crushing times, and it was their spirit that ultimately became the core of this city's reknowned jazz funeral tradition. That attitude propels Dr. Michael White's optimistic theme on his newly penned 'Dawn of a New Crescent' on which the noted clarinetist steps out of his traditional jazz mode to take on more modern tones. Unlike most locales, New Orleans recognizes few musical demarcations. Artist Delfeayo Marsalis contributes 'Lost in the Crescent' with an all-star group that includes drum master Elvin Jones, readily crossing over to play in any number of genres. Those stemming from old New Orleans musical families comfortably stand alongside relative newcomers like bassist, Jesse Boyd, and a younger generation of jazz poets such as the hip Chuck Perkins. On My Way Back Home reflects the principals that have sustained New Orleans music and makes it great. IT celebrates the strength of this city's musical family that extends beyond bloodlines to the heart and soul.
