Older News (2007)
Click on link below to jump to specific story or scroll down to view all
December 2007
November 2007
October 2007
Dumpstaphunk on Louisiana Music Factory videos
Charmaine coming to the Northeast in February 2008
Arthel hosts special on TV Guide Network
Cyril begins blogging on his MySpace page
Aaron Show dates and Pre-Sale Information
Voodoo Music Experience webcast
More Neville songs available on iTunes
September 2007
August 2007
July 2007Further info about the Fats Domino tribute album (updated 7-24-07)
For Mardi Gras Indian fans (no Neville involvement)
June 2007
Ivan contributes to educational CD
A summary of all shows currently available via download (will open in a new window)
May 2007
Dumpstaphunk EP released (updated May 2, 2007)
April 2007March 2007February 2007January 2007
December 2007
PRODUCER OF "FIYO ON THE BAYOU" AND "ORCHID IN THE STORM" PASSES AWAY.
Joel Dorn, the man responsible for producing two of the greatest Neville albums ever, has passed away at 65. Information found at the Washington Post's web site.
Grammy-winning jazz producer Joel Dorn dies at 65
Reuters
Monday, December 17, 2007; 9:13 PMLOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Veteran record producer Joel Dorn, who worked with such artists as Roberta Flack, Max Roach and the Neville Brothers, died of a heart attack on Monday in New York. He was 65.
Dorn, a one-time disc-jockey at a Philadelphia jazz radio station, was perhaps best known for his work with Atlantic Records' prestigious jazz stable between 1967 and 1974. Working alongside the label's jazz chief, Nesuhi Ertegun, he brought a pop sensibility to works by musicians such as Roach, Herbie Mann, Les McCann and Eddie Harris, Mose Allison and Rahsaan Roland Kirk.
Dorn once said his two biggest influences were songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, and producer Phil Spector.
"To this day before I go in and make a record, I'll throw on 'Be My Baby' or a Coasters record," he said.
In the pop field, he helped set Bette Midler and Flack on the course to stardom, producing their debut albums. He and Flack won consecutive record of the year Grammys, for "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" (1972) and "Killing Me Softly With His Song" (1973).
He also ventured into rock with the Allman Brothers Band's second release, 1970's "Idlewild South," and Don McLean's 1974 album, "Homeless Brother." (McLean was the inspiration for the songwriters of "Killing Me Softly...")
Dorn "bridged the worlds of jazz and pop with enormous skill and grace, never compromising the integrity of his artists and their music," said Edgar Bronfman, Jr., the chairman and chief executive of Atlantic's Warner Music Group Inc parent.
Dorn left Atlantic in 1974, and worked for other labels' acts, such as Leon Redbone, Lou Rawls and the Neville Brothers. His collaboration with the latter spawned their 1981 breakthrough "Fiyo on the Bayou."
In his later years, he formed his own labels, and oversaw reissues of classic jazz albums for Columbia Records, Rhino Records and GRP Records. At the time of his death, he was a partner in the roots label Hyena Records, and was working on a five-disc tribute to his mentor, "Homage A Nesuhi." He is survived by three sons.
(Reporting by Dean Goodman; editing by Eric Walsh)
As a footnote... When Dorn's Hyena Records reissued "Orchid in the Storm" in 2003, I emailed him, asking if there would be any previously-unissued material on the reissue. I specifically asked about the song "A Thousand Miles Away" (which can be heard very faintly during the medley's fade-out.) Mr. Dorn's assistant responded, saying that Joel had told him that the song wasn't releasable and that I was the first person who had ever mentioned noticing that song during the fade-out. That's as close as I ever got to speaking with him, but I understand that he was a really nice guy. His sudden passing is a tragic loss to the music industry.
- Jon Tyler
Periodically, I like to do a Yahoo search of the web, looking for reviews of (and links to) this site. I just found the following review at "Eat Sleep Drink Music"...
Man-about-MySpace: Clan Neville
Posted on 10.24.07 by Dr. Flucke @ 9:45 pmMost of the time, the Man About MySpace is at your service to find great new bands for the sampling. Today’s blog, however, offers a tip of the cap to a phenomenal fan site, Neville Tracks....
... Neville Tracks does its best to track the family’s in-print recordings as well as tour dates. Not an easy job after Katrina forced scattered the family throughout several states. But they persist, and so do the superfans who power this MySpace.
Click HERE to read the entire review...
And, on that note, I'd like to take this time to thank everyone who has helped to make NevilleTracks what it is. Without the input from all of you, this site would not be all that it is. The favorable review above belongs to you ALL!!!
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Happy and Healthy Holidays to all!!!
-Jon Tyler
I was checking out the oft-recommended "Home of the Groove Blogspot" yesterday and noticed that its creator, Dan Phillips, had written an excellent piece on some of Art's rare single from the mid-to-late-1960's. Dan's knowledge of New Orleans R&B is encyclopedic!
To read the article, click HERE and scroll down to the December 4th entry. And while you're there, check out the rest of Dan's articles. There are many which are Neville-related in some way, but all are worth reading, even if the Nevilles aren't mentioned in that particular blog entry.
November 2007
Speaking of Brother Cyril... KGSR Radio in Austin Texas is due to release the latest in its series of exclusive "KGSR Broadcasts" CDs. This 2-CD set (Volume 15) includes a recording of the Meters classic, "Talkin' 'bout New Orleans" (by Cyril and his band, Tribe13.)
The discs, due for release on November 23, 2007, can be ordered HERE.
It appears that copies of Tribe 13's debut CD were released in Europe during the band's recent tour there. UK-fan, Ed Ievers acquired a copy, directly from the source...
"I think they were selling copies at his gigs in Europe during most of August... The disc does not have a catologue number but it marked E.S. Records and was recorded in Austin Oct and Nov 2006 and Jan/Feb/Mar 2007."
Ed also sent the following track listing: "Cry Cry Cry for New Orleans," "The Price of Freedom," "Uptown Ruler," "Indians Got That Fire," "Mean Things Happening (In This World)," "Jolly Man (Sewed all Night)," "Dance Hall Lights," "Better Half" and "H20." (This is the actual playing order of the songs; tracks 1 and 5 are listed in the reverse order on the packaging.)
Thanks Ed!
As most of you are probably aware, Aaron recorded a version of the song "Any Day Now" (which was released on both the "Devotion" DVD and the "Gospel Roots" 2-CD set.)
I learned just a few days ago that he had also recorded the song previously (most likely during the late '60s or early '70s.)
More about this newly-discovered recording soon!
While this will likely be "old news" to many long-time Neville fans, I would bet that there are some newer fans who are not aware that the Nevilles wrote a collective autobiography (which was published in September 2000.) When released, it was a huge hit with fans and critics alike.
According to the publisher's press release ... "In their own words, the Neville Brothers - 'the first family of New Orleans music'-tell their amazing story, from hard times to their phenomenal Grammy-winning success today.In The Brothers, each Neville alternates telling his story, from their childhood in segregated New Orleans to a growing involvement in crime and drugs to the eventual decision, in the mid-seventies, to start performing and recording together. The Brothers is an inspiring tale of soulful sounds, the importance of heritage, and the powerful bonds of family."
The book was released in paperback in October 2001. Hardbound or paperback copies can be obtained through many online resellers such as Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com and the Louisiana Music Factory. Of course, copies can also be found at on-line auction sites such as eBay on a semi-regular basis.
If you've never read the book yet, I would highly recommend doing so!
(pictured below are the US and Japanese covers.)
October 2007
According to Offbeat Magazine's October 18th "Weekly Beat," ...
The in-store performances at Louisiana Music Factory that have become a staple of the Jazz Fest week were preserved this year. They now can be seen on the Music Factory's Web site. The videos bring back performances by Rick Trolsen, Bonerama, Kenny Bill Stinson, Ivan Neville's Dumpstaphunk, Jon Cleary, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Bob French and the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, and many more.
Go HERE to see the videos
Charmaine Neville, Charles's daughter (and a VERY talented singer in her own right) has just added a page on MySpace.
Click HERE to visit that page.
According to Charmaine's brand new MySpace page, she will be bringing her show to the northeast on February 1, 2008.
They will be appearing at 8:00 PM at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, 75 Church Street, North Adams, Massachusetts 70116
Patrons of the Arts performance Series Tickets for all shows are $12 $5 for MCLA faculty and staff Free for MCLA students and Patrons of the Arts.
Visit her MySpace page for additional dates!
This just in via Arthel Neville's MySpace page...
Arthel will be hosting a special on the TV Guide Network entitled, "Britney & Lindsay: Under The Influence."
The show will premiere on Friday, Oct. 12, at 5 pm/ET.
Brother Cyril has begun sharing his thoughts and feelings via a Blog on his MySpace page.
According to Aaron's MySpace page...
Tour dates for Christmas with Aaron Neville and his Quintet featuring Charles Neville have just been announced:
December 6 – Orlando, FL @ Hard Rock Live
December 7 – Fort Pierce, FL @ Sunrise Theatre
December 9 – Mobile, AL @ Saenger Theater Performing Arts Center (No Presale)
December 11 – Tupelo, MS @ BancorpSouth Arena (Presale begins Oct 24th)
December 13 – Annapolis, MD @ Rams Head On Stage
Presale thru: Rams Head
Password is: christmasprayerDecember 14 - Roanoke, VA @ Shaftman Performance Hall Benefiting Toys for Tots
December 16 – Nashville, TN @ Wildhorse Saloon
A limited number of tickets for the Orlando, Fort Pierce, and Nashville shows have been held for Aaron Neville fans and will be available through a special presale that begins this Wednesday, October 10th at 10 AM Local Time. By buying tickets through the fan presale, you'll be able to get your tickets before anyone else AND save some money on service charges. The presale for the Tupelo, MS show will begin Wednesday, October 24th at 10 AM Local Time.
Click here to buy tickets: http://aaronneville.ducatking.com
According to Satchmo.com, this year's Voodoo Music Experience (which includes performances by Dumpstaphunk, the New Orleans Social Club, PBS and many other great musical performers) will be webcast by the iClips Network. (October 26-28)
Go HERE for more details.
Go HERE to view the Voodoo Music Experience schedule.
Charmaine contributed a live recording of "Mack the Knife" to the "Snug Harbor Live Jazz Series Volume 1" DVD.
Here's a description of the collection, taken from the Louisiana Music Factory's web site:
Choice Jewels from The Snug Harbor Treasure Chest Of Jazz... Recorded Live during the Summer of 2005 and the Spring of 2006... Eighty Full Minutes of The Best From The New Orleans Jazz Scene
For more info (and to order the DVD,) click HERE
According to a very reliable source, the first CD from Cyril and Gaynielle's band, Tribe 13 is due very soon. Details will follow.
Early this year, rumors were circulating about the possibility of some sort of special release happening this year to commemorate the Brothers' 30th anniversary. From what I understand, both audio and video material was being reviewed for possible inclusion in a CD / DVD boxed set.
After hearing little news on that front for several months, I recently heard (also from a very reliable source) that there is something even bigger in the works! Stay tuned for updates.
The Bayou All-Stars
Wed, October 3, 2007 7:30 PMNew Orleans jazz legends, including George Porter Jr., Cyril Neville and Henry Butler, have united to celebrate the indomitable spirit and culture of their native city. Now, the show's on the road and they're coming to Concord!
Also featuring Papa Mali and Rob Kidd.
More info available HERE
(Thanks to Denise Sullivan for the info.)
September 2007
For those seeking more details about Cyril and Gaynielle's band, Tribe 13, the band's Electronic Press Kit can be viewed HERE. The EPK includes biographies, photos and audio samples (among other information.)
To all my my space friends and family, I am so proud to announce my new business. I now along with my husband have a new travel agency, I hooked up with a wonderful company called YTB that has such wonderful bargains I had to become a business partner. They not only have great flight deals, they book cruises, hotels, car rentals. and I tell you the convenience of a one stop travel need portal is just mind blowing.
Guess what? I can accomodate concert tickets, opera tickets, stageplay tickets.
If you are a frequent flyer you want the pleasure of flying comfortably and reasonably. I guarantee with YTB/Tribe 13 Bookings you will receive great travel deals and save lots of money.
Go to http://www.ytb.com/Tribe13Bookings for furthur info.
Also for my acting entertaining friends, extras, I need headshots I am doing the casting thing and I will work diligently to get you the roll you want.
To the casting agents, let's work together. I have been told by reliable working professionals the market is definately in the south.
Where I live in Texas, there is no representation for minorities and people of color. I will be casting everyone, white, black, hispanic. Any one who wants to try out for a roll.
Since there are lots of film makers who have chosen New Orleans, Austin, Houston to make their films, videos and other projects that require services, CCQ casting wll be making a mark.
Thanks for stoppong in to read it, now heed it.
Have a funkalicious day.Gaynielle Queen G Neville
Art's hard-to-find 45 ("My Babe" / "My Dear Dearest Darling" on Cinderella Records) is currently up for auction on eBay. I have dealt with this seller on a couple of occasions and can recommend them highly!
THIS AUCTION HAS NOW ENDED.
I posted this a few months ago and have decided to repost it now...
Back in the mid-to-late 1990's, there was an affiliation between Cyril's Endangered Species label and Tipitina's (which had recently launched its own record label and recording studio.) At that time, Tipitina's offered custom CDs, and MANY recordings made by Cyril were available on these discs. All ten tracks from "The Fire This Time" were available. Two tracks from "Soulo" ("Another Man" and "Fonkaliscious") were also available and all ten cuts from "Me And Fess" (aka "New Orleans Cookin'") were available as well.
In addition to all of these otherwise-available gems, nine other tracks were available which were never included on any of Cyril's CDs!"Carnival Time," " Don't You Just Know It (with Nick Daniels,) " Go To The Mardi Gras," " I Can't Wait to Get Back Home," " Let's Go Zydeco" (with Rockin' Dopsie,) "Ooh-Poo Pa Doo" (with James Andrews)," "The Blues," "Merry Christmas Baby" and "Christmas Time in New Orleans" (which might actually be the same song found elsewhere as "Christmas Scene in New Orleans.")
Unfortunately, these custom CDs are no longer available and I fear that these rare recordings will never see another release.
If ANYONE can help me acquire copies of any of these tracks, please contact me at: jon@nevilletracks.com
Cyril appears on the upcoming documentary release, "20 to Life: The Life & Times of John Sinclair," (due October 9.) For further details, click HERE.
"New Orleans Music in Exile" is being shown on the Starz Cinema channel on the following dates and times:
Tue. Sept 4 (6:35am); Tue. Sept 4 (2:35pm); Sat. Sept 8 (10:50am); Fri. Sept 14 (2:10pm); Wed. Sept 19 (8:50am); Wed. Sept 19 (04:20pm) and Sun. Sept 23 (6:35am)Art Neville (and fellow Meter-man, George Porter, Jr.) appear on the "Bodog Music Battle of the Bands" on the Fuse Network Wednesday Sept 5 at 1:00pm
Aaron is featured on VH-1's "Show Us Your Tats" on Sunday, Sept 16 at 10:30am.
"Make It Funky!" is being shown on Encore Drama Channel on Wednesday Sept 26 at 8:00pm
Stay up-to-date by visiting VH1's Rock-On-TV
August 2007
Sorry for such short notice, but I just got this news this morning (courtesy of Arthel's MySpace page) ...
It's called "Going Back To New Orleans"
It's a two-hour special on New Orleans musicians; mainly Deacon John. Check it out. 8 PM / 7 Central
Wednesday, August 29Go to : www.mynetworktv.com
(For Listings)
Due to an ongoing (and ever-increasing) problem with SPAM e-mails, I am going to start changing my e-mail address on a semi-regular basis. At this point, I'm losing real e-mails amid the high volume of junk. I pride myself in responding to all legitimate emails in timely fashion and have fallen behind lately due to this problem.
I will keep the contact info updated on this site any time I change the address. If you try to contact me and receive an email, saying that the email address is invalid, please check the link at the bottom of any page for the latest contact address.
Sorry for any inconvenience this causes. Hopefully, it will result in my being able to respond quicker to your e-mails, questions and comments.
The folks at A\V Getdown have revamped the Neville Brothers' official web site. This upgrade to the site includes more multimedia content and a more user-friendly (and visually appealing) layout. Make sure to check out the PHOTO/VIDEO page while you're there to see lots of new photos of the band!!!
At this time, the site's discography does not include any of the Nevilles' solo projects. Of course, a comprehensive list of their solo projects is still available right here at Nevilletracks.com. For individual discographies, click on the "Individual Discographies" link on the Nevilletracks home page.
Click here to visit the Nevilles' official web site... www.Nevilles.com
July 2007
According to the article found HERE, the upcoming Fats Domino tribute CD (due on September 25th) is a 2-disc set and will be released by Vanguard Records (to benefit the Tipitina's Foundation.)
Although the article indicates that the "line-up is subject to change," it currently indicates that Art Neville will contribute "Please Don't Leave Me" and the BB King / Dumpstaphunk collaboration is the disc's title song, "Goin' Home."
Updated 7/24/07... I failed to mention previously that the New Orleans Social Club is contributing "My Girl Josephine" (with Taj Mahal) to this compilation. Presumably, Ivan will be part of the group on the recording.
Arthel Neville, well-known journalist, TV personality (and daughter of eldest Brother, Art "Poppa Funk" Neville) now has a page on MySpace.
Click HERE to pay her page a visit!
Back in November 2006, a special-edition boxed set was released, featuring both of the Wild Magnolias' classic 1970s albums, "Wild Magnolias" and "They Call Us Wild," (plus one bonus track.) The set, which includes a poster and book, retails for around $69.99.
Another company has just reissued a standard edition of the same 2-CD set (minus the bonus track and without the poster, book and box.) This new version retails for $19.99 and can be found at Amazon.com for $14.99 and at the Louisiana Music Factory for $16.99.
I've heard no first-hand reports on the sound quality, but I still feel safe in recommending this set to any Mardi Gras Indian fan!
June 2007
This just in via the New Orleans Social Club's MySpace page...
2 NEW NOSC Discs NOW Available!! LIVE shows!
Get your very own copy of the NOSC Live at Langerado Festival and Live at Crawfish Festival both from 2007!!
Relive the magic or if ya' missed it experience for the first time.
Two unforgettable shows now available to you!!
Purchase on their myspace page or by clicking HERE and then clicking on the link that says "OUR STORE."
Back in January 2007, it was reported that Art Neville was slated to appear on an upcoming Fats Domino tribute album from the Tipitina's Foundation. A recent article in the Times Picayune discusses that release (and the contributions of rock legend Robert Plant at length.) The article makes no mention of Art's contribution, but it does mention that Ivan's band, Dumpstaphunk has recorded a track with BB King for the disc.
Thanks to Denise for the heads-up on this one!!!
Noted New Orleans drummer, Stanton Moore has released a few educational books on the subject of New Orleans drumming.
In his latest book ("Take It To The Street") from 2005, he "presents a study in New Orleans Street Beats and second-line rhythms that takes the glorious cosmopolitan sounds of the Louisiana style and applies them to funk and rock drumming... This unique tutorial gives you the chance to learn about this rich musical heritage and master the beats that have become so characteristic of this cultural melting-pot. You will learn about the history of street beats, second line and the Mardi Gras Indians as well as the importance of clave to New Orleans drumming. The accompanying CD includes performances by The Dirty Dozen, George Porter and Ivan Neville."
What do you get when you combine Native American music with punk-rock and alternative music? You get Blackfire, "a Native American (Diné) traditionally influenced, high-energy, politically driven group comprised of two brothers and their sister. Born into the heart of a political land dispute area on Black Mesa in the Navajo Nation, this Family's powerful music reflects the Hopes, Freedoms, and Barriers of today's world."
Cyril makes a guest appearance on "Common Ground," a song from Blackfire's newest CD, "[Silence] is a Weapon." The album is available through CDBABY.COM (or through i-Tunes, where you can buy the entire album or just the song to which Cyril contributes.)
For more information about Blackfire, please visit their Official Web Site.
While looking around MySpace yesterday, I discovered a recording by David Treadway, to which Art contributed keyboards and backing vocals. I have not yet been able to ascertain whether or not the song was ever released commercially. A video for the song can be viewed atDavid Treadway's official web site and on his MySpace page.
"Ain't It Funny" was recorded in New Orleans during December of 1995 at Art Neville's Tree House Recording Studio.
This song features Art Neville of The Neville Brothers on Piano, Paul Clement on Bass and Shawn Power on Guitar. Eric Kolb and David Treadway on Keyboards and Sequencing. Additional backing vocals by Art Neville, Randy Cullom & Shawn Power.
Dedicated in loving memory to Eric Kolb & Randy Cullom.
(Eric Kolb was a long-time keyboard technician and member of the Neville Brothers Band until his tragic passing in 1999.)
More info from fellow Neville collector, Tony Supriano...
Ivan contributed to several tracks on Joan Osbourne's latest album, "Breakfast in Bed" (which is a collection of classic R&B / soul coves.)
There are a couple video clips available on-line, showing Ivan in the studio, recording the album.
Amazon.com has a clip of "Sara Smile" while Osbourne's own web site currently has a clip of "Midnight Train to Georgia" (with others promised in the future.)
Click on the links above to see the videos.
May 2007
My friend and fellow Neville collector, Tony Supriano just informed me of another film which features Neville Brothers recordings in its soundtrack, "Black Indians: An American Story."
The Neville songs included are "With God on Our Side" and "Will The Circle Be Unbroken."
“Black Indians: An American Story,” explores the issue of racial identity among Native and African Americans. This in-depth documentary examines the coalescence of these two groups in American history.
For more details about the movie, click HERE
The Charles Neville Quintet, led by the saxophonist of the legendary Neville Brothers Band, will perform original compositions and fresh arrangements of jazz standards and popular classics with a New Orleans twist on Sunday May 27, 2007 at the Acton Jazz Café, 452 Great Road Acton. (978) 263-6161. www.actonjazzcafe.com 7:30pm $15 cover Reservations recommended.
The band personnel include: Charles Neville - tenor and alto saxophone, Jerry Sabatini - trumpet and flugelhorn, Harvey Diamond - piano, Rick Maida - bass, David Hurst - drums.
And, don't forget to stop by Charles's MySpace page for a visit! www.myspace.com/charlesneville
(Thanks to Rick Maida for the information!)
(Updated on 5-24-07)
As stated previously, DigitalSoundboard.net is offering several shows via download in it's "NOLA Late Night" series. Several of these include contributions from Ivan and Ian.
Still available from 2006's Fest are shows from Jamikazi and the New Orleans All-Stars, both of which feature Ivan.
So far, the 2007 shows available include The Nawlins Funkmasters (with Ivan and Ian) and (again) the New Orleans All-Stars (with Ivan.)
**JUST ADDED** Dumpstaphunk's show at the Howlin Wolf on April 27, 2007.
The funky Meters show (featuring Art and Ian) from the House of Blues was also recorded but is in limbo at the moment. Go to the band's official website for updates (and to show your support of its release.)
For those without broadband connections, DigitalSoundboard.net also gives you the option of ordering CD-Rs of the shows. Those discs arrive with the music in WAV format, so you can listen to them on your computer OR you can burn an audio CD from those files!
There is an interesting video about Charmaine (and her efforts to recover from Hurricane Katrina) posted on MySpace. Her selflessness and generosity continue to amaze and inspire me!
Click Here to check it out!
Cyril's wife, Gaynielle (aka "Queen G.") has a MySpace page worth checking out. In addition to the video (and audio) of the song "Cry Cry Cry (For New Orleans,) the site also includes a track ("In My Zone") from her forthcoming solo CD.
Details to follow...
I just found out that Cyril will be performing at Dartmouth College on Friday (May 18th) in the afternoon. It's a free concert called the "Grandmasters of Funk featuring Leo Nocentelli, Bernie Worrell, Cyril Neville, Doug Wimbish and Tony Mason." (Doors are at 3:00. Show starts at 4:30) Click HERE for details.
And, during the month of August, Cyril and Queen G. wil be off to Europe for an extensive tour, dubbed "Cyril Neville and the Family Groove Tour." (Check TOURDATES for information.)
According to the Miracle Dread Productions website,
Miracle Dread Productions proudly presents:
the family groove tour:
CYRIL NEVILLE - "the uptown ruler"
coming over first time to europe with his own band "tribe 13".
an amazing journey from the ancient to the future - from the mardi gras indian tradition, the new orleans funk of the meters and neville bros, over second line reggae to the hip hop.
extra ordinary line up: gaynielle neville + omari neville, the caesar brothers, courtney (audain) and many more
On Tour from 2nd till 27th of August 2007!!!
More details to follow....
Back in February, I reported that Aaron had a MySpace page. I found out today that there is a newer page for Aaron there. Click Here to check it out!
The Brothers now have an authorized MySpace page. Click Here to check it out!
Again, thanks to Audun Berg for this information !!!!
Check out Cyril's MySpace page for a mini-documentary/music video for a moving song titled "Cry, Cry, Cry For New Orleans" (which features a vocal duet by Gaynielle and Cyril.)
Over the years, the Nevilles have made promotional appearances on radio stations, doing interviews and the occasional in-studio performance. Likewise, some concerts have been promoted (and recorded) by different radio stations. Many of these performances have been aired by the stations, while a handful of songs have been issued on limited-edition CDs, released by the stations. (These discs are not too difficult to find, but tend to be quite pricey.) Luckily, four in-studio recordings were made available for download via the iTunes download service.
There are probably others, but I am only aware of the following releases.
In 1995, a live recording of "Yellow Moon" (which was recorded at the Fillmore in San Francisco, California) was released on KFOG's "Live from the Archives Volume 2."
In 1998 WXRT in Chicago (which had recorded and broadcast an entire Neville performance) released another live recording of "Yellow Moon" on its "On-XRT Volume 3" cd. This same recording was issued on A&M promotional cds and CD-singles.
In 2002, yet another recording of "Yellow Moon" was released on the "KBCO Studio C - Volume 14" cd.
In 2004, "Your Life (Fallen Soldiers,)" "Brothers," "Walkin' In the Shadow of Life" and "Rivers of Babylon" were released via the iTunes download service on the "KFOG to i-Tunes" digital EP.
In 2005, a live recording of "Voodoo" was included on the "KBCO Studio C - Volume 17" cd.
In 2006, "Rivers of Babylon" was released on the "KGSR Broadcasts - Vol. 13" cd.
DUMPSTAPHUNK
Listen Here
DP Records
Across his varied career, Ivan Neville, the eldest son of Aaron Neville, has released acclaimed solo albums, toured with Keith Richards and Bonnie Raitt and helped re-energize the Neville Brothers band. With DumpstaPhunk, he has built a band from the ground up. His cohorts include cousin Ian Neville -- Art's son -- on guitar, bassists Tony Hall and Nick Daniels III, and drummer Raymond Weber.
Not surprising for a band with two killer bassists, they drop bottom-heavy bombs on "Listen Here," their new, five-song sampler CD. On the four tracks with lyrics, they are angry about Katrina, poverty, police brutality. The difference between sublime and strident in social protest songs is a matter of subtlety; stating the obvious is pointless, and no fun to sing along with. "Turn This Thing Around" asks, "What about the people walking the streets/ain't got nowhere to stay/We got to help them people out . . . What about the people . . . with no shoes on their feet? We got to help those people too."
Why, yes, we do -- and while we're at it, let's not forget "the people trapped from the storm with no place to go." The song also observes that "politicians say do this and some of them say do that" -- not exactly a groundbreaking observation.
"Meanwhile" suggests "shake your pretty booty, baby, there might not be a next time." "Shake It Off," featuring guest Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews, seems resigned to the reality of police brutality ("Don't let them haters piss you off"). The disc's lone instrumental, "Stinky," is a case study in mid-tempo smooth funk. With no distractions, the players dig in. Sometimes saying -- or singing -- less is indeed more.
Click here for original article (Reproduced here without permission.)
Thanks to Audun Berg for telling me about this review!
Note that correct title of disc is "Listen Hear."
As many of you know, I am a big fan of Keith Spera, a music writer for the Times-Picayune in New Orleans. I don't know if it's because I like his writing style or if it's more a question of my agreeing with his opinions and comments more often than not. More than likely, it's a bit of both. I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to read Keith's articles and reviews in the Times Picayune (and online at NOLA.COM.)
The May 4, 2007 issue of the Picayune has an article about that evening's Funky Meters show in New Orleans (and features a few comments by Poppa Funk about the past, present and future of the Neville Brothers and the Meters/funky Meters.
I have archived the article HERE
Thanks to Mary Alice Moore for telling me about this article!
As mentioned last month, I am currently having MAJOR problems with e-mail spammers. It appears as though one of them has hijacked my e-mail account and is sending out junk e-mails using my name. If anyone is receiving spam mail from Nevilletracks, please let me know about it! I already notified my ISP about the problem and hopefully a fix will happen quickly.
Likewise, if you have emailed me and I have not responded within a day, please assume that your email has been lost in this mess. Please drop me a line on one of the official Neville message boards and I will contact you from another email address!
I apologize for the inconvenience!
Jon Tyler - Nevilletracks Administrator
The clarinet player on the aforementioned U-Ka "Live at Snug Harbor" CD is Charles's wife, Kristin Gaitenby-Neville! Kristin also co-wrote and performed on the song "Sacred Ground" (on the Brothers' "Mitakuye Oyasin Oyasin" CD.)
Additionally, Kristin designed a limited edition Neville Brothers poster (which was sold in shops in New Orleans and via the Nevilles' website ten years ago.) For those who never saw the poster (which featured drawings of the Brothers' faces on a purple background with the Neville Brothers logo below the faces,) I will seek permission to reproduce it on this site.
My friend Tony Supriano (who has made many contributions to this site over the years) has informed me that Dumpstaphunk has released a 5-track EP, featuring "Livin In A World Gone Mad," "Turn This Thing Around," "Meanwhile" and "Shake." (He was unsure what the fifth song is.)
According to Ivan, the disc is now available at the fairgrounds and at the Louisiana Music Factory and will be available for purchase online very soon!
Offbeat has a favorable review of the disc. Read their review HERE.
Tony S. has also informed me that Charles performs on U-Ka's "Live at Snug Harbor" CD.
Once again, many JazzFest performances will be available for download (and released on CD.) Those who were not fortunate enough to attend the Fest can experience it through the recordings while those who attended can have a life-long souvenir of the event!
The Dumpstaphunk show will be available as of May 4th.
Already available are the New Orleans Social Club and Charmaine Neville recordings! (Meter-man George Porter's set is also available now.)
Shows from previous years are also still available including: Dumpstaphunk (2006 & 2005); The Neville Brothers (2005); the Original Meters (2005) and ex-Neville/funky Meters guitarist, Brian Stoltz (2005)
April 2007
I was just looking over the New Releases at the Louisiana Music Factory's web site and noticed that Ivan has contributed keyboards to two more New Orleans-based releases.
He played Hammond B-3 on four songs on New Orleans Rhythm Conspiracy's "Dancin' Ground."
He also contributed keyboards to the title track on George Porter, Jr.'s "It's Life." Acccording to the Porter-Batiste-Stoltz official newsletter, ""It's Life," is the brand new studio album from George Porter, Jr. Boasting a backing band comprised of legendary New Orleans musicians, "It's Life" features seven never-before-heard original compositions, including the striking new song "Waterfall." These smooth sounds are featured alongside deep grooves like the Porter classic "All I Do Everyday," Curtis Mayfield's "Here But I'm Gone," and the Meters' "Out In The Country." A must have for any George fan!
For those who don't know who George Porter, Jr. is... George is one of the busiest (and best known) bass players in New Orleans and has played with Poppa Funk in the Meters and funky Meters and with Ivan in the New Orleans Social Club (as well as with countless dozens of other regional and national acts!) Click HERE to check out his web site and to buy the CD. You can also order the disc from the Louisiana Music Factory.
Former Neville Brothers (and funky Meters) guitarist, Brian Stoltz has a new CD out.
According to the Porter-Batiste-Stoltz official newsletter, "Up All Night," is the first ever live album from Brian Stoltz. Recorded in 2006 during a special performance in Fort Lauderdale, this 2 disc release showcases Brian's inimitable guitar style, which has been described by Bob Dylan as "funky and blistering with articulate schemes." Let your imagination run wild through a sonic playground of classic Stoltz songs from the critically acclaimed albums East of Rampart Street and God, Guns and Money, with mind - melting jams and cool covers including "All Along the Watchtower," a reggae rendition of "Ring of Fire," and much, much more!
The album is now available for sale in stores and online at Brian's website. You can also grab copies at Louisiana Music Factory and the Borders' Tent on the Jazz Fest Fairgrounds.
The following information was posted this morning (April 20) on Cyril's myspace page.
Free Concert in New Orleans, Wed. May 2, 2007
Neighbors Helping Neighbors, that is the theme for this first annual P. U. R. E. (Peace, Unity, Reconciliation, Effort) concert series to benefit the New Orleans 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th wards. This year it will be hosted in the ninth ward. The concert will be free. Drippin spring water/ Willie Nelson spring water will bring their wonderful solar stage, and loads of water for the Jazz Fest partiers to buy and you will be giving back to people of New Orleans....
Only we can help ourselves....
Through hope and determination, we will.Date: Wednesday, May 2, 2007.
12:00 noon until ??We will have press releases about the correct venue.
Artists who already signed on:
Anders Osborne
Papa Mali
Cyril Neville
Dr. John
Charmaine Neville
The Caesar Brothers
Big Chief Victor Harris & Spirit Of The Fi, Yi, Yi
Gaynielle Neville/Queen G
Al Carnival Time Johnson
and many moreArtists are added each day…
I just wanted to take a moment to let everyone know what's happening with the site. I'm sure you've noticed that there haven't been many revisions in the past couple months.
For starters, there really hasn't been much new happening on the Neville front (as far as new releases are concerned.)
Contrary to the rumors that were spreading a few months ago, the Nevilles are heading back out on the road shortly. Check their Official site or Pollstar for show dates.
The first Dumpstaphunk CD is due out shortly. From what I understand, Ivan will be touring extensively with Dumpstaphunk this summer. (Check Dumpstaphunk's Official Site or their MySpace page for updates.)
Hopefully, we'll see Jason Neville's debut CD soon as well. Watch Jason's official site for updates on that!
Another reason for the recent lack of site updates is that I don't have as much time to devote to it as I did in the past. If anyone is interested in submitting editorial content, please e-mail me and let me know! I'd be more than happy to add it to the site.
I have been receiving hundreds of junk e-mails every week, so I added a new anti-spam filter to my e-mail. When you write, you should receive an automated reply, indicating that your message requires verification. Simply hit the reply button and then send the message. Do NOT add anything to the subject line! Sorry to have to make things a bit more cumbersome, but the amount of junk e-mails is overwhelming. If I don't respond within a day or two, please assume that your e-mail was stopped by one of the filters (and not that I am ignoring your e-mail!) If I don't reply, please post a message to me on one of the Neville message boards and I will contact you from a different e-mail address.
Thanks.
Jon Tyler (updates@nevilletracks.com)
March 2007
In 1991, Aaron had a hit with his remake of the Main Ingredient hit, "Everybody Plays the Fool." At the time, the song was issued on a vinyl 45 and a cassette single, featuring the b-side, "House on a Hill." In Germany, the song was added as a bonus track to that country's pressing of the "Warm Your Heart" CD. Admittedly, this very funky song (which features son Ivan on keyboards) didn't quite fit stylistically with the rest of the songs on that LP, but it is really a great tune and a must-have for any fan of Aaron and the Neville Brothers. As luck would have it, the song is now available for download from Walmart.com (for 88 cents.)
February 2007
As you have probably heard by now, Brian Stoltz has decided to leave the funky Meters to pursue his solo projects and to devote more energy to Porter-Batiste-Stoltz. His guitar playing was an integral part of the funky Meters' sound for over a decade (as it was to the Neville Brothers' sound during much of the 1980's.) To read Brian's official announcement, go to his official web site.
Taking over on guitar duties is Art's son, Ian (who has been quickly making a name for himself as guitarist in the Neville Brothers and in Ivan Neville's Dumpstaphunk. His first performances with the funky Meters (on March 8th and 9th in Colorado) were solid and successful.
Thanks to the band's generous taping policy and the generous sharing of those who taped the first night's performance, I have been able to listen to the show and can assure you that fans of the funky four have no need to worry. Sure, Brian will be missed, but Ian brings his own personality and style to the band and fans can rest assured that the funky Meters live on.
On the funky Meters message board, George Porter posted the following message:
I sat on the side to see how all this will play out, and I must say that it is going to be OK.
The Funky Meters will live and play on, until one of us say that is it, those words will only come from Art Neville or Porter, Jr.
Last night went very well, I did not think it would not, but was, well you know.
Brian brought something to the table that will be missed, and if Ian is to take this seat for the rest of this Bands run for live, then He will also bring something that will be remembered.
Long Live The Funky Meters
Porter, Jr.
3/09/07January 2007
The Funky Meters are now on MySpace also. Check out there page HERE.
Check out Aaron's MySpace page HERE. It looks like it's been up and running for several months. I can't believe I missed it! I guess I was distracted by how amazing his Official site looks since its most recent upgrade.
Thanks to Audun Berg for alerting me to this!
It looks like Neville Brothers drummer "Mean" Willie Green has a side project. The New Orleans Underdawgs has rapidly developed a strong following (and has been garnering a lot of critical acclaim) around New Orleans.
To quote their MySpace page verbatim, "Take the drummer from the Neville Brothers, Willie Green and add two members of the Rebirth Brass Band, Shamar Allen and Flea, and then add two members of the Cosmic Sweat Society, Elliott Cohn and Kenny Green, and finally round it off with one of the finest keyboard players in the crescent city, Mike Burkhardt and you have the New Orleans UnderDawgs."
Their official website is still in the construction stage, but their MySpace page is up and running now.
Thanks to Denise for the heads-up!
I can't begin to tell you how many times I've heard rumors that the Neville Brothers have decided to go their own separate ways and retire from the music business. Again, the rumors are running rampant, largely fueled by the fact that the Nevilles will not be closing out the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival again in 2007.
I have no inside information, but the rumors have proven to be false in the past, so I feel compelled to take an "I'll believe it when I see it" stance.
Neville Brothers shows are starting to be added to their itinerary. (Usually, their schedule doesn't start filling in till the spring months, so I don't expect to see many listed yet.) Ivan and Ian are very busy with Dumpstaphunk. Cyril and Charles each have solo dates listed. Aaron has added a couple new dates recently as well.
Even if the Neville Brothers band doesn't tour quite as often as it has in the past, their individual projcts will be giving us ample opportunity to be Nevillized again in 2007.
According to Keith Spera in his excellent story about Aaron and Joel (see previous news item,) Aaron "plans to be back onstage with the Neville Brothers this spring, and anticipates a busy year, as 2007 marks the 40th anniversary of "Tell It Like It Is" topping the charts and the 30th anniversary of the Neville Brothers. The band's manager is sorting through material for a possible CD/DVD box set. The Nevilles may record a new album. There is talk of Aaron collaborating with Linda Ronstadt again."
The end of the Neville Brothers? Like I said, I'll believe it when I see it.
According to a post by "Kathy" on the message board at Aaron's official site, there is an article about Aaron and Joel on the Times-Picayune's website. The article by Keith Spera, titled "The Hardest Homecoming," appeared in 1/28/07 edition of that paper.
Click HERE to read this very moving article!
With Mr Spera's permission, I have archived this story HERE.
iTunes has another "new" Aaron track available for download. This time, it's the Safari Records track "Ape Man" (from 1968.) Unfortunately, I've been seeing more and more misidentified songs on iTunes lately. Luckily, you can preview every song on the sevice before downloading it.
If you click on "Ape Man" by Aaron Neville, you will hear a preview of another song altogether. If you click on "Soul Train" by Curley Moore, you'll hear Aaron's song. I assume you must download the Curley Moore song in order to get the Aaron track.
According to Offbeat Magazine's Weekly Beat newsletter, Brother Art will be appearing at Saturday night's Best of the Beat tribute to Fats Domino. Offbeat also reports that "Later this year, the Tipitina's Foundation is releasing a tribute CD with Fats Domino songs recorded by B.B. King, Robert Plant, Tom Petty, Taj Mahal, Elton John, Dr. John, Art Neville, Olu Dara, Herbie Hancock, Toots and the Maytals, Randy Newman, Robbie Robertson and Monk Boudreaux, the late John Lennon (?), Dr. Lonnie Smith and more."
Visit Offbeat's website by clicking HERE.
Universal Music's "20th Century Masters - The Millennium Collection: The Best of Aaron Neville" (originally released in 2002) is being re-released on January 30th. The 12-track, greatest hits collection includes: "Tell It Like It Is," "Warm Your Heart," "Sweet Amelia," "Don't Take Away My Heaven," "I Can't Imagine," "Everybody Plays The Fool," "A Change Is Gonna Come," "Angola Bound," "Please Remember Me," "Use Me," "Some Days Are Made For Rain" and "To Make Me Who I Am."
The new version has been digitally remastered and will be housed in a digipack.
While we're all waiting for Dumpstaphunk's debut CD to be released, iTunes users can enjoy a free hour-long podcast featuring a portion of the band's 4-13-06 performance in Athens, GA.
Since posting Charles's show dates a few days ago, I've been given the approval to post Dumpstaphunk and Tribe 13's schedules as well.
There is now a "Tour Dates" link on the homepage OR you can access the schedules by clicking HERE.
Please understand that I am not connected with any booking agency, so the dates I list will be those that are published on other official web sites. I will make every effort to list only the shows that have been advertised by the bands or their representatives. This seems to be the safest way to assure that I'm not posting inaccurate information.
Updated 1/23/07... I have received approval to post the New Orleans Social Club's show dates as well. As you know, Ivan is a member of this New Orleans Supergroup.
Art's ultra-rare recording of "My Babe" (from 1963) is now available for download at the iTunes site! The sound quality is not the greatest, but the historical importance of the recording (at least to us Neville fans) offsets the shortcomings in sound quality. (WARNING: There are two versions listed on the service. The 2:31 song is correct. The 3:44 track is actually the brass band classic, "Second Line.")
And, for those who are interested in the roots of the Nevilles' music… the ORIGINAL recording of "Mardi Gras Mambo" (by Country performer, Jody Levens) has also been added to the iTunes site recently. As you all know, brother Art recorded a cover of the song in 1954 with the Hawkettes. It's one of those rare instances where the original recording has faded into obscurity while the cover has remained popular for over 50 years! Then again, what would anyone expect with Poppa Funk at the helm?
As you're probably aware, Ivan is about to release his first Dumpstaphunk CD in the not-too-distant future.
It was just brought to my attention an hour ago that Aaron's youngest son, Jason is also set to release HIS first CD, "I'm Just Jay." I encourage everyone to check out his official web site and make sure to listen to the audio samples. I guarantee you will NOT be disappointed. "One on One" features guest vocals by Aaron. The song "After the Rain" is scheduled to be the first release from the album and will be dedicated to his mom.
I'll provide updated information on release dates as soon as possible.
For those who are not aware of it, MySpace is an on-line social community where people go to meet new people and stay in touch with old friends. Every member has his or her own profile page (which is somewhat comparable to any other personal site on the internet.)
One of my favorite aspects of MySpace is the fact that so many musicians (including several members of the Neville family) have pages on that site. It's a way to keep up on an artist's tour schedules and any other news or insights he or she wants to share.
(Keep in mind that some of these pages are actually maintained by third parties and NOT the musicians themselves.)
I encourage everyone to check it out sometime. So far, I have found pages for Cyril Neville & Tribe 13, Charles Neville, Dumpstaphunk, New Orleans Social Club, Ivan Neville, Ian Neville and the Meters. (The Meters page has been inactive for a few months, but you can always visit Meter-man George Porter, Jr.'s page. Also, Funky Meters / PBS members Brian Stoltz and Russell Batiste are on MySpace as well.)
As you all probably know by now, Aaron lost his wife of nearly 48 years, Joel on January 5th. Rhys McClure, a family friend, has designed a beautiful website as a tribute to Joel. I encourage everyone to check it out at www.joelneville.com.
On January 3rd, Cyril sent out a message via his MySpace page, saying that "I am coming home for Mardi Gras this year, I have something to say musically, spiritually, and I will come to share in the uniqueness that my city represents during such a spiritual and coming together of good times and rememberances of a wonderful city ..." (PLEASE CLICK HERE TO READ THE ENTIRE LETTER)
