Album Information Section

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

Artist: Various Artists

Original Release Date: February 20, 2012

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)
• 26. Walking to New Orleans (2:01)
• 27. Java (1:55)
• 28. I Won’t Cry (2:19)
• 29. Peanut Vendor (2:08)
• 30. Cha Dooky‐Doo (2:38)
• 31. Walking With Mr. Lee (2:28)
• 32. Let the Good Times Roll (2:15)
• 33. ’Fore Day in the Morning (4:09)
• 34. Sea Cruise (2:43)
• 35. Gonzo (2:25)
• 36. You Talk Too Much (2:33)
• 37. There Is Something on Your Mind (2:53)
• 38. Ooh Poo Pah Doo (2:19)
• 39. Mardi Gras in New Orleans (2:53)
• 40. New Orleans (2:23)
• 41. Carnival Time (2:40)
• 42. Hello, My Lover (2:56)
• 43. Ain’t Got No Home (2:22)
• 44. I Know (You Don’t Love Me No More) (2:19)
• 45. Ya Ya (2:27)
• 46. I Like It Like That (1:57)
• 47. Storm Warning (2:52)
• 48. Every Dog Has Its Day (2:15)
• 49. Over You (2:20)
• 50. Don’t Mess With My Man (2:16)

Recording Information

The album “New Orleans: Blues, Soul & Jazz Gumbo” is a compilation that showcases the rich musical heritage of New Orleans, featuring various artists known for their contributions to the genres of blues, soul, and jazz. The compilation was recorded in different studios across New Orleans, capturing the essence of the city’s vibrant music scene. The precise recording studios are varied, as the album encompasses tracks from multiple artists who have recorded in numerous locations throughout the city over several decades.

The album was released on February 20, 2012, by Metro Select, and it features a diverse array of producers and engineers, reflecting the collaborative nature of New Orleans music. Notably, the album highlights the use of traditional recording techniques, often employing analog equipment that lends a warm, authentic sound to the tracks. The production team aimed to preserve the original feel of the songs while presenting them in a contemporary format, making it accessible to modern audiences.

Band Context

As a compilation, “New Orleans: Blues, Soul & Jazz Gumbo” does not focus on a single band or artist but rather encapsulates the musical spirit of New Orleans through a variety of performers. Many of the featured artists were integral parts of the city’s music scene during the mid-20th century, a period marked by the flourishing of jazz and blues. Artists such as Dr. John, Allen Toussaint, and Fats Domino are among the notable figures whose music is represented in this collection.

During the time leading up to this compilation’s release, New Orleans was experiencing a resurgence in interest regarding its musical history, partly due to the city’s recovery efforts following Hurricane Katrina. The album serves as a tribute to the resilience and creativity of the artists from New Orleans, many of whom faced significant challenges but continued to create music that celebrated their culture.

Track Commentary

The 50 tracks included in “New Orleans: Blues, Soul & Jazz Gumbo” are a testament to the eclectic mix of musical styles that have emerged from the city. From the upbeat rhythms of “Let the Good Times Roll” to the somber tones of “St James Infirmary,” the album covers a broad spectrum of emotions and themes. Each track reflects the influences of jazz, rhythm and blues, and the soulful storytelling that characterizes New Orleans music.

Standout tracks include “Good Rockin’ Tonight,” which showcases the energetic style that has made New Orleans a hub for rock and roll, and “Mardi Gras Mambo,” a spirited celebration of the city’s most famous festival. The emotional depth of “I Thought I Heard Buddy Bolden Say” pays homage to the legendary cornet player Buddy Bolden, often credited with the birth of jazz, while “Ain’t Got No Home” captures a poignant sense of longing and resilience.

The album has received positive critical reception, with many praising its comprehensive overview of New Orleans music. It serves not only as a collection of songs but also as a cultural artifact, highlighting the city’s unique contributions to American music and the enduring legacy of its artists. By bringing together these tracks, “New Orleans: Blues, Soul & Jazz Gumbo” ensures that the sounds of New Orleans will continue to resonate with future generations.