New Orleans: Blues, Soul & Jazz Gumbo – Various Artists

Album Overview: New Orleans: Blues, Soul & Jazz Gumbo

Album Information Section

Album Title: New Orleans: Blues, Soul & Jazz Gumbo

Artist: Various Artists

Original Release Date: 2012-02-20

Label: Metro Select

Genres: Blues, Soul, Jazz

Track Listing

1. Potato Head Blues (2:59)
2. I Thought I Heard Buddy Bolden Say (3:12)
3. Down in Jungle Town (2:51)
4. Ballin’ the Jack (2:13)
5. St James Infirmary (3:39)
6. 29th and Dearborn (2:55)
7. Mail Order Woman (2:30)
8. I’ll Never Be Free (3:00)
9. Good Rockin’ Tonight (2:59)
10. Stack‐a’Lee (2:16)
11. Bon Ton Roula (3:16)
12. Poppa Stoppa’s Be Bop Blues (3:01)
13. Oooh‐Oooh‐Oooh (2:38)
14. Gumbo Blues (2:26)
15. The Things That I Used to Do (2:59)
16. Jock‐a‐Mo (2:26)
17. You Better Believe It (2:22)
18. Witchcraft (2:36)
19. Double‐Eyed Whammy (2:28)
20. Shrimp & Gumbo (2:06)
21. Mardi Gras Mambo (2:14)
22. Later Alligator (2:52)
23. (Everytime I Hear) That Mellow Saxophone (2:25)
24. Those Lonely, Lonely Nights (2:25)
25. Ay‐Te Te Fee (2:42)
1. Walking to New Orleans (2:01)
2. Java (1:55)
3. I Won’t Cry (2:19)
4. Peanut Vendor (2:08)
5. Cha Dooky‐Doo (2:38)
6. Walking With Mr. Lee (2:28)
7. Let the Good Times Roll (2:15)
8. ’Fore Day in the Morning (4:09)
9. Sea Cruise (2:43)
10. Gonzo (2:25)
11. You Talk Too Much (2:33)
12. There Is Something on Your Mind (2:53)
13. Ooh Poo Pah Doo (2:19)
14. Mardi Gras in New Orleans (2:53)
15. New Orleans (2:23)
16. Carnival Time (2:40)
17. Hello, My Lover (2:56)
18. Ain’t Got No Home (2:22)
19. I Know (You Don’t Love Me No More) (2:19)
20. Ya Ya (2:27)
21. I Like It Like That (1:57)
22. Storm Warning (2:52)
23. Every Dog Has Its Day (2:15)
24. Over You (2:20)
25. Don’t Mess With My Man (2:16)

Recording Information

The album “New Orleans: Blues, Soul & Jazz Gumbo” was recorded in various studios in New Orleans, a city known for its rich musical heritage and vibrant culture. Specific studio names and recording dates for this compilation are less documented due to its nature as a various artists compilation, but it is presumed that many tracks were sourced from recordings made primarily in the mid-20th century.

Given the diverse array of artists featured, producers and engineers varied by track. However, many of the recordings were likely overseen by producers who had a deep understanding of the New Orleans music scene, such as Dave Bartholomew and Allen Toussaint, both of whom played pivotal roles in shaping the sound of New Orleans rhythm and blues.

Notably, the album employs traditional recording techniques that encapsulate the raw and live feel of New Orleans music, utilizing analog equipment to capture the essence of the performances. The production aims to reflect the vibrant atmosphere of New Orleans, from its jazz clubs to street performances, ensuring that listeners experience the city’s musical gumbo in its authentic form.

Band Context

As a compilation album, “New Orleans: Blues, Soul & Jazz Gumbo” showcases a multitude of artists, many of whom were significant figures in the New Orleans music scene during the 20th century. Artists featured include legends like Louis Armstrong, Professor Longhair, and Fats Domino, each of whom contributed to the evolution of jazz, blues, and rhythm and blues.

During this time period, many of these artists were experiencing varied levels of commercial success. Some, like Armstrong, had already achieved international fame, while others were regional stars with dedicated followings. The compilation serves as a retrospective of the unique musical styles that emerged from New Orleans, providing listeners with a broad spectrum of the city’s musical legacy.

In the years leading up to the album’s release, there was a resurgence of interest in classic New Orleans music, spurred by festivals and cultural events that celebrated the city’s rich musical history. This compilation not only honors the past but also introduces a new generation of listeners to the sounds that define New Orleans.

Track Commentary

The album features 50 tracks that exemplify the diverse and rich tapestry of New Orleans music. Opening with “Potato Head Blues,” listeners are immediately drawn into the city’s jazz roots, while tracks like “St. James Infirmary” and “Good Rockin’ Tonight” highlight the blues and rhythm and blues influences that are integral to the genre.

Standout tracks such as “Walking to New Orleans” by Fats Domino and “Let the Good Times Roll” by Shirley & Lee serve as iconic representations of the joyous spirit that characterizes much of New Orleans music. The compilation also includes lesser-known gems, allowing listeners to explore the depth of the musical landscape.

Critical reception of the album has noted its ability to transport listeners to the heart of New Orleans, capturing the essence of its musical gumbo through a well-curated selection of tracks. Each song contributes to the narrative of the city’s cultural and musical identity, making this compilation not just a collection of songs, but a celebration of New Orleans itself.

José Olavo Cerávolo