James Andrews: Satchmo Of The Ghetto

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

Recent articles (1,677 total)

Published: August 1, 1998

With Allen Toussaint and Dr. John backing him on organ and piano, James Andrews presents the kind of fun-loving music that takes place in Preservation Hall. Not one to employ etude drills or carefully-articulated tonguing exercises, the trumpeter remains loose and lyrical. Similarly, his singing has roots in blues and trad jazz; it's music intended to entertain an audience with good old-fashioned down-home charm. The supporting ensemble is stellar; besides the keyboard leadership, the band includes drummer Bernard "Bunchy" Johnson, electric bassist Charles Moore, and guitarist Scott Goudeau.

"Sweet Emma," "Catch the Willie," and "Got Me a New Love Thing" represent the lead vocal style of Andrews; the band sings backup to his entertaining tales. "Banana Boogie," "The Old Rugged Cross," and "Going for the Money" represent the brassy, happy trumpet style of Andrews; the addition of growls and slight ending shakes serve to extend his emotive intentions. Like Louis Armstrong, James Andrews sings and plays the trumpet to entertain an open-minded audience. It's music from the heart of New Orleans, carrying with it the influences of a century.

Track Listing: Poop Ain't Gotta Scuffle No More; Last Night on the Back Porch; Latin Cats; Sweet Emma; Going for the Money; Got Me a New Love Thing; Banana Boogie; Catch the Willie; It's Only a Paper Moon; Your Mama Don't Dance; The Old Rugged Cross.

Record Label: NYNO
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream