The Rebirth Brass Band are originally from the home of jazz and blues, New Orleans. Having formed in 1983 by tuba player Philip Frazier along with his brother drummer Keith Frazier and trumpeter Kermit Ruffins. They also collaborated with members of a school marching band to complete their large line up. Their sound is categorised as a combination of traditional New Orleans brass band music with genres such as jazz, soul, funk and hip hop.
The band released an album in 1984 through Arhoolie Records which was received well by their early fan base and gained them the opportunity to play their sound more widely. Their commercial notoriety was achieved following the release of 'Feel Like Funkin' It Up' through Rounder Records in 1989.
RBB created a tradition on the New Orleans music scene by performing every tuesday night at the Maple Leaf Bar on Oak Street in the Carrollton neighbourhood of Uptown New Orleans. Many tourists now visit the bar as an introduction to the rich and vibrant music scene of the city.
Their tours are always upbeat and energetic, with a real sense of adoration for music when the group play together. They have released a number of successful live DVDs showcasing their musical capabilities. In 2012 they were awarded a Grammy Award for Best Regional Roots Music Album
Whether you're catching Rebirth Brass Band at the Maple Leaf bar on Tuesday night in New Orleans, or on the road in your hometown, there are few live music experiences that can rival the mind-blowing effects of this Grammy winning all-star crew.
You've never heard a band with so many horns and drums on stage as tight as Rebirth. The music gets at your soul, poundin' and groovin' so that you can't help but shake your hips. Whether they're playing New Orleans classics or their own hip-hop, jazz, and soul infused brass, it doesn't get much better than a Rebirth live show.
While these guys do the festival circuit, the best place to see them is in a small venue, preferably a dive bar that serves Abita beer. The Maple Leaf on Oak Street in New Orleans is their home turf where they've held the Tuesday night residency for who knows how long. It's a wonder they fit everyone on stage at this small, smokey, dark venue. The show starts late, but once Rebirth takes the stage time stands still. You'll come out of your haze around 4am and wonder if you'll ever see a show like that again.