It was exactly 40 years ago that Louis Armstrong popularized the tune “What A Wonderful World,” yet it continues to be relevant in today’s social climate. When Louis Armstrong sang it, the world was rife with racial struggles and political upheaval. Now, when Jolie Holland and Booker T. Jones sing it, the world is again struggling with political problems and social collapse. The angelic singer and the tough organist wanted to remind us of how lovely life is, even in the midst of economic and political strife. Their attempt to bring beauty into a world of struggle pairs the equally unusual combination of Jolie Holland’s ethereal voice with Booker T’s earthy organ and piano. ([More →])

From The Corner To The Block and straight out of Hurricane Katrina’s path of destruction! ANTI- Records will soon release a very special album from the N’Orleans band Galactic. One of the most inspiring and unique albums to be pressed since the devastating storm intersected with one of our nation’s oldest cities, From The Corner To The Block is a rare documentation of worlds colliding. Not only because the musicians were forced to evacuate their homes during the recording process, but also from the seamless integration of hip hop bounce with traditional Mardi Gras marches and old-world brass band stomps. ([More →])