To the untrained ear, there might not seem to be any correlation between Dixieland Jazz and Bluegrass, and therefore no logical reason to pair the longstanding and phenomenally acclaimed Preservation Hall Jazz Band with the equally well-established and lauded Del McCoury Band. The fact is that Jazz and Bluegrass are slightly different branches of the same southern tree and there might be no better way to exemplify the genres’ commonalities than to put them in the same studio and on the same stage to show just how perfectly their styles and personalities mesh.
The idea to link PHJB and the McCourys was sparked last year when Del McCoury got involved with Preservation, a multi-artist benefit project designed to raise funds for New Orleans’ Preservation Hall venue and its Music Outreach Program. PHJB and McCoury recognized their inherent similarities, both musical and historical. PHJB was founded in the early ’60s, just a few years before McCoury joined Bill Monroe and His Bluegrass Boys. Both bands also feature a revolving membership (PHJB wins in this category, with several dozen alumni over the past half century).
Preservation Hall Jazz Band performs at the Aronoff Center’s Procter & Gamble Hall Friday with The Del McCoury Band. Go here to read Brian Baker’s full Sound Advice.
This article appears in May 11-17, 2011.