If you want some loud and lively music, then let’s hear it for the hot, dirty, sharp, and undoubtedly lively tones of brass. I don't mean those mellow, warm notes of a typical old-style brass band, though those are great in their own way and can add a distinct style to a song.
Instead of those hot, funky brass bands that deliver the sort of music you can't resist toe-tapping along with, as an absolute minimum. The trumpets, cornets, trombones, and the many variations take front stage in these, rather than being the occasional backing or added to a song. If you still aren't sure what I mean, I have some great examples of this in the list below.
As you’ll soon find out, the list doesn't feature the many bands that incorporated brass into their music. It does have a strong New Orleans flavor, and for several of the songs included, you’ll hear covers of classic songs reworked and turned into something special. Covers can be a big miss if they haven't added or changed anything from the original, but that's not the case with the ones on the list by a long way.
Five blaring blasts from superb hot brass bands
Hot 8 Brass Band - “Sexual Healing”
Let's start with one of my favorite bands of this genre, the Hit 8 Brass Band from New Orleans. This is their top song and a superb example of hot brass music. They take the silky smoothness of the Marvin Gay classic “Sexual Healing” and add a raw edge. This is a party starter, a dance floor filler, and a bundle of energy-giving vibes. It’s even better if you see them play it live.
No BS! Brass Band - “Take On Me”
This band hails from Richmond, Virginia, but like the Hot 8 above, they have the sound of New Orleans in their soul. Again, it’s a classic cover brought to life. They have covered the A-ha hit “Take On Me” in a different direction. It’s rawer and rougher than Aha, but all in a very good way. It's a sensational sound and variation of a top tune.
Old Dirty Brasstards - “Wonderwall”
Time to show that a UK band can shake it up too. This ten-piece setup really funks up the Oasis theme “Wonderwall”. It fits the bill of transforming the tune with this brassy arrangement and rework. Would the Gallaghers approve? Well, it’s probably unlikely they’d both agree on a verdict. It’s a stand-out version in my book of a song that's been heavily covered by many.
Brassft Punk - “Around The World”
A slightly different approach with this version of a Daft Punk song. Brassft Punk was a short project by sound producer Earl Scioneaux III, also known as The Madd Wikkid. He took his beloved New Orleans home sounds with brass players and applied them to a few Daft Punk tunes. This one is great with its almost hypnotic title lyrics rolling behind the rollicking brass sounds as the lead. It’s a clever adaptation of the original for sure.
Pigbag - “Papa’s Got A Brand New Pigbag”
This brilliant tune is even more different from the others, though it has a similar great sound. British post-punk band Pigbag made their name with this original song they wrote rather than a cover. This is a glorious ballsy blast with the brass blaring out and memorable hooks. It’s jazzy, funky, and has a tremendous thumping drum beat. A lively burst of happiness each time you hear it.