“Happy Weekday Blues” (PDF) from the Kermit Ruffins with Rebirth Brass Band album, Throwback

In the coming years, as we recover from the hardships of this administration’s fumbled response to COVID-19, when it’s safe enough for public gatherings without the threat of a communal airborne virus, live music will return. My hope is for musicians to thrive from local venues realizing the economic benefits of hosting live music beyond the late-night hours on the weekend, where a chorus of the blues provides the soundtrack to a friendly reunion. Since March, “Every Day I Have The Blues” has been on repeat, and I can’t wait for the day when we can all follow Kermit Ruffins’ advice: “We gotta live life good and swing those happy weekday blues!” All aboard!

Once again, there’s no exact indication on who plays this trombone solo but I have to guess that it’s Corey Henry due to its blues phrasing and funky, lilting rhythm, as opposed to Stafford Agee’s dexterity and unwavering rhythms. This particular solo utilizes a triplet feel that both fits in the pocket of the swinging groove and also sets itself apart from the background shouts and riffs during its second chorus. However, it’s the soloist’s ability to blend together both swung and straight phrasing, through the use of blues melodies, that demonstrate the relaxed and effortless feel of funk.

Here’s a YouTube video by Deborah “Big Red” Cotton of the Rebirth Brass Band with Corey Henry:

Recommended viewing: Never A Dull Moment: 20 Years of Rebirth Brass Band, music documentary.