Lucien Barbarin (1956-2020), the grandnephew of Paul Barbarin, was a very expressive New Orleans trombonist. In his career he mostly played locally (including with Dr. Michael White) but also toured with Harry Connick Jr. and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.
On Talkative Horns, which was recorded a few months after Barbarin’s passing, trombonist Craig Klein pays tribute to him. Klein is joined by cornetist Kevin Louis, guitarist Molly Reeves, pianist Steve Detroy, bassist Mitchell Player, and drummer Jerry Barbarin Anderson. Starting with the musical conversation between the two horns on “Lucien’s Blues,” this is a heartfelt and colorful homage. The trombonist proves to be a master at utilizing mutes and making conversational sounds with Louis matching him every step of the way. The two horn players sing a bit on “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot,” perform a charming version of “Girl Of My Dreams,” display their large variety of “wa-wa” sounds on “Rocking Chair” and, after they create a new funeral march on “Tomb Tune,” follow it with the celebratory “If I Could Hug You.”
While the rhythm section is excellent, the spotlight is primarily on the solo work and interplay between Craig Klein and Kevin Louis. The results are a delight.
Talkative Horns
Tromboklein Music
www.louisianamusicfactory.com
Bandcamp.com
