Extra Crispy Brass Band
Bringing high-energy brass sounds that transform any event into an unforgettable experience
Upcoming Events
Music
Albums
Extra Crispy Brass Band
The Extra Crispy Brass Band released its first recording in June 2014. It is a self-titled, self-released effort that reflects ECBB's diverse interests and influences. First and foremost, there are tunes from the New Orleans brass band tradition, such as street funk numbers like “You Move Ya Lose” and “Do Watcha Wanna” by the Rebirth Brass Band, and standard tunes like “St. Louis Blues” and “Royal Garden Blues” that give a nod to traditional jazz. ECBB also branches out and converts two songs that echo the Afro-Caribbean tradition into brass band songs: Willie Colon's “The Hustler” and Dave Bartholomew's “Shrimp and Gumbo.” Finally, there are two original songs, “Let's Get Busy” and “Have Mercy on Me,” that reflect ECBB's desire to take the NOLA brass band tradition in a new direction.
One Step Forward
The Extra Crispy Brass Band's second album, One Step Forward, released in June 2017, showcases the band's growth and originality. Named after its dynamic title track, the album is a bold step into fresh territory, featuring all original compositions except for a soulful, high-energy brass band interpretation of Michael Jackson's iconic “Billie Jean.” Each track reflects ECBB's deep connection to the New Orleans brass band tradition while pushing the boundaries with inventive arrangements and spirited grooves. From funky street beats to heartfelt ballads, One Step Forward highlights the band's commitment to creating music that moves both feet and hearts.
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About
The Extra Crispy Brass Band (or EC Brass Band or ECBB) plays New Orleans-style brass band music inspired by the great contemporary bands such as the Dirty Dozen, Hot Eight, Rebirth, and New Birth Brass Bands as well as traditional outfits such as the Olympia and Mahogany Brass Bands. The EC Brass Band’s repertoire includes pieces from the turn of last century (1900!), traditionals by Louis Armstrong and Sidney Bechet, modern funk tunes, and originals.
The Extra Crispy Brass Band played its first show on September 1, 2011, at the venerable Uptowner in Riverwest, Milwaukee and has since played a slew of high profile gigs at Bastille Days, Turner Hall Ballroom/Radio 88.9, Burnhearts Fest, and Cathedral Square/WMSE Backyard BBQ, State Fair, and numerous festivals around the state, as well as doing educational shows at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music and public schools in greater Milwaukee. They held down a biweekly residency at the Uptowner for a year and a half that became a favorite event for music lovers and swing dancers alike. The ECBB won WAMI awards for best horn band/big band in 2014 and 2019.
Education
The Extra Crispy Brass Band believes that art and music play an important role in every child’s education. In fact, ECBB knows this first hand, as many of us work as music educators and see the positive effect of our music programs on children who come to school lacking motivation or direction. (Indeed--academic studies show that children who participate in high quality music program have better attendance, better grades, and are more engaged in their class work!) ECBB seeks to spread the joy of New Orleans brass band music to as many youngsters as possible in hopes that they will continue the legacy of this unique form of jazz. To that end, ECBB offers a variety of clinics and educational programs sure to engage any audience—from kindergartners to 12th graders. ECBB has brought the positive message to the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music, Franklin High School, West Bend High Schools, Mitchell Elementary, West Allis Middle School, and many others. Bring us to your school—and take advantage of our school/non-profit rate!
We offer:
- Full school assembly performances
- Clinics from beginner to advanced
- 2nd line drum clinics
- Historical seminars on the evolution of New Orleans brass band music
- The Music of Mardi Gras presentation/clinic
Contact
Looking for the Extra Crispy Brass Band to play your club, bar, wedding, BBQ, birthday party, festival or funeral? Call or Email Us!
Phone: 414.248.6880
Email: [email protected]