Preservation Hall Jazz Band:
The PHJB's new release features the current lineup with a roster of guest artists, who range from Tom Waits to the Blind Boys of Alabama to Louisville's own "Yim Yames," and many more. The material is mostly traditional, including chestnuts such as the romping opener "Shake It and Break It" (with Andrew Bird). Pete Seeger joins in on Irving Berlin's "Blue Skies." Not only is the music a delight, but the proceeds from this recording go to the Preservation Hall Music Outreach Program, dedicated to passing on the art form to younger generations. If you take any joy at all from traditional New Orleans music, you can't go wrong by adding this to your collection.