Naughty Professor, the up-and-coming Nola-based jazz/funk sextet, will release their second album, Out On A Limb (Ropeadope) nationally on May 12. This collective of Big Easy performers captures the swinging spirit of New Orleans procuring a distinct jazz/ funk sound and making their mark on the Nola music scene.
Naughty Professor features the talents of Bill Daniel (guitar), Noah Young (bass), Sam Shahin (drums), Nick Ellman (alto & baritone sax), Ian Bowman (tenor sax) and John Culbreth (trumpet), who embody the burgeoning young, fusion-heavy contemporary jazz heard in Nola’s ever-evolving music scene. They bring together elements of soul, funk and free-form jazz through tight compositions and improvised components garnering attention from heavy-hitters; George Porter Jr., Galactic, and The Revivalists.
The first single released in late March, “Brain Storm,” is a brass-forward, high-energy groove with prominent trumpet and sax solos that dart back and forth over funky guitar riffs. The tune transports listeners right to a Frenchman Street late night party.
L4LM Exclusive Release: The Naughty Professor’s ‘Brain Storm’
“Elephant Hunt,” a layered piece that sways in serene conversation between brass section and guitar upon launch, slides into a distortion-heavy jam with driving beat. The brass section triumphantly returns to bring the piece full-circle.
Produced by Grammy winner Chris Finney (Dr. John, Rebirth Brass Band), Out On A Limb aligns the band with fellow NOLA luminaries and will surely make them a musical force to reckon with in the very near future.
Following a busy 2014, with sets opening Galactic, Marco Benevento, The Revivalists, and Rebirth Brass Band, Naughty Professor’s efforts have earned them a spot on the Jazz Fest 2015 roster. Be sure to catch them alongside Earphunk, for a very special Jazzfest pre-party on April 23rd!