No outfit has done more than the Hot 8 to recast the long tradition of New Orleans marching music for modern times. This second album finds them in incendiary form, infusing the strut of Crescent City brass with funk and hip-hop flavours and offering tart commentary on their beleagured home town. Can't Hide From the Truth castigates local police for killing a late band member, while the Specials' Ghost Town is given a riotous refit. They add Latin flavours to Basement Jaxx's Bingo Bango, blow hot jazz on Steamin' Blues, and whoop and holler throughout. A downbeat sequel follows; for now, enjoy their fury.
Contributor
Neil Spencer
Neil Spencer is a writer and an astrologer for The Observer
Neil Spencer
The GuardianTramp