Jazz It Up: Look Out for Trombone Shorty at the 9:30 Club

Anna Zipkin

trombone shorty

If you‰’re in D.C. at the end of December, be sure to check out trombone player Trombone Shorty and his band, Orleans Avenue, at the 9:30 Club. Over the summer, I had the privilege of seeing this up-and-coming artist at San Francisco‰’s Outside Lands music festival and let me tell you, he does not disappoint. His music combines elements of multiple genres, which include rock n‰’ roll, R&B and funk with jazz. The mix creates an exciting, audience worthy sound, perfect for a night of dancing and grooving. You do not want to miss out on his three-night, D.C. visit which is sure to be just as fun and entertaining as his performance at Outside Lands!

Perhaps “Hurricane Season‰” is the best form of stylistic introduction to Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue, as it encapsulates his unique blend of musical styles the best: the clapping beats and in-sync cheers of 90s R&B, the heavy grunge of rock n‰’ roll guitars and the high-pitched, modal melodies of typical, jazz brass sections. The end of the piece, though melodically similar to the beginning and middle of the song, incorporates a guitar synthesizer with the louder bass line, wrapping up the song on a funkier and more upbeat note, no pun intended. Ultimately, “Hurricane Season‰” represents Trombone Shorty‰’s talent as a combined-styles musician and portrays the animated spirit of he and his band.

Tickets to see Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue can be purchased on the 9:30 Club‰’s website. Get them soon, they’re selling quickly!