Chanson Du Vieux Carre

Personnel: Harry Connick Jr. (piano); James Greene, Charles 'Ned' Goold (alto saxophone); Jerry Weldon, Mike Karn (tenor saxophone); Dave Schumacher (baritone saxophone); Derrick Gardner, Joe Magnarelli, Leroy Jones, Roger Ingram (trumpet); Craig Klein, John Allred, Lucien Barbarin, Mark Mullins (trombone); Joe Barati (bass trombone); Neal Caine (bass instrument); Arthur Latin (drums).

Harry Connick Jr. has no shortage of musical credibility, not least because of his writing and arranging skills (which often take a backseat to his better-known skills as a singer and pianist). CHANSON DU VIEUX, a 2007 album that coincided with the release of OH, MY NOLA, takes on New Orleans through the lens of post-Hurricane Katrina trauma, yet, like its counterpart, is equal parts history lesson and joyous celebration. Connick doesn't sing here; instead he arranges a host of classic N'awlins gems (from the likes of Louis Armstrong, Sidney Bechet, and Professor Longhair) for big band, while adding tasteful accompaniment on piano. Exciting charts, superior musicianship, and a deep love of the Big Easy drive this fun release.

What the critics say...

Down Beat (p.59) - "[Connick is] heard deep within the rhythms section....When he steps out, it's with a spare style that nudges rather than blows all over the groove..."