Ske-Dat-De-Dat…The Spirit of Satch

One of New Orleans’ best-known musicians, Dr. John pays tribute to New Orleans’ most legendary musician, Louis Armstrong, on this free and funky collection of songs by and associated with the great man. Arranged by trombonist and coproducer Sarah Morrow, every track features guest stars to keep the productions ever-changing and alive. Dr. John kicks off the often-covered “What a Wonderful World” with a pure New Orleans groove that also features The Blind Boys of Alabama offering up a fabulous vocal intro and trumpeter Nicholas Payton acting as a soloist. Anthony Hamilton provides the smoothest of vocals for a modern, easy-listening jazz version of “Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child,” while The McCrary Sisters offer subtle contributions to “That’s My Home” and “Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen” that also lets modern soul singer Ledisi take the reins. The backing bands throughout provide a modest consistency that further allows the stars to show off. With guests like Terence Blanchard, Shemekia Copeland, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, and Arturo Sandoval, the album never lacks for star power or quality material.

At 73 years old, you can still count on Mac “Dr. John” Rebbanack to zig instead of zag, to shift gears in mid-turn.

Dr John's exuberant tribute album to jazz great Louis Armstrong features trumpeters Terence Blanchard, Nicholas Payton, Arturo Sandoval, Wendell Brunious and James Andrews

New Orleans’ titan sits on his laurels in the company of Louis Armstrong. CD new music review by Guy Oddy