After all this time, Syncopated Times readers ought to be familiar with Tuba Skinny; the band has been the subject of many articles and reviews in this publication. Founded as a street band in 2008 in New Orleans, Tuba Skinny has released thirteen albums under its name plus one accompanying singer Maria Muldaur in the ensuing years. Most are currently available on CD and all on downloads. On each album one can hear the band getting better and better. Hot Town is no exception.
Tuba Skinny is very popular on YouTube, having received hundreds of thousands of hits on many New Orleans and concert performances. When not playing in New Orleans the band goes on the road, playing concerts to large, enthusiastic crowds of various ages. This writer witnessed one recently in Dayton, Ohio. As a band specializing in classic jazz and blues of the 1920s, Tuba Skinny is the most popular band of this type in the US today. Listen to Hot Town and you’ll understand why.
The sound of the band is unique, unlike any typical Dixieland, Watters/Murphy stomp, or any other trad concept group. The repertory leans towards the very obscure, avoiding overplayed standards. In fact, on this CD the only familiar selection is Jelly Roll Morton’s “Kansas City Stomps,” and that one might only be known to dyed-in-the-wool tradsters.
The heart of Tuba Skinny’s strong rhythm section is Erika Lewis, literally sit
