Biography
Bonerama is a pioneering brass funk rock band hailing from New Orleans, Louisiana, formed in 1998 by trombonists Mark Mullins and Craig Klein. Both founders were longtime members of Harry Connick Jr.'s big band before launching Bonerama as a creative outlet to push the boundaries of the traditional brass band sound. The group quickly grew to include other talented trombonists, a sousaphone, guitar, and drums, establishing a bold lineup that placed trombones front and center—an unusual move that became their signature.
Bonerama's musical style is a vibrant fusion of rock, funk, jazz, blues, gospel, and soul, reflecting the rich musical heritage of New Orleans. Their energetic performances and genre-defying approach have earned them acclaim for both original compositions and inventive covers of artists such as Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, and Black Sabbath. Over the years, Bonerama has released several albums, including 'Live at the Old Point' (2001), 'Shake It Baby' (2013), and 'Bonerama Plays Zeppelin' (2019), and has played prestigious venues and festivals worldwide. Their collaborations with artists like OK Go, R.E.M., and Little Feat showcase their versatility and influence across genres.
Now in their third decade, Bonerama is celebrated as one of New Orleans’ most respected and beloved bands, credited with redefining the brass band format and inspiring a new generation of musicians. Their legacy is marked by their innovative sound, high-energy shows, and deep connection to the cultural DNA of New Orleans.
Fun Facts
- Bonerama performed the U.S. national anthem at the 2008 Sugar Bowl.
- Their joint EP with OK Go, 'You're Not Alone,' was created to support New Orleans musicians displaced by Hurricane Katrina.
- Bonerama is known for covering classic rock songs with trombone-driven arrangements, including Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath.
- Founding members Mark Mullins and Craig Klein were both long-time members of Harry Connick Jr.'s big band before starting Bonerama.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Harry Connick Jr. - Mark Mullins and Craig Klein were members of Connick's big band, learning from his jazz and big band leadership. (Harry Connick Jr. Big Band performances and recordings) [1990-2006]
Key Collaborators
- Mark Mullins - Founding member, trombone, electric trombone, lead vocals (All Bonerama albums and live performances) [1998-present]
- Craig Klein - Founding member, trombone, vocals (All Bonerama albums and live performances) [1998-present]
- Greg Hicks - Trombone, vocals, joined after early lineup changes (Bonerama albums post-2009) [2009-present]
- Chris Butcher - Trombone (Recent Bonerama performances and recordings) [2010s-present]
- Bert Cotton - Guitar (Bonerama albums and live shows) [2000s-present]
- Matt Perrine - Sousaphone, bass (Bonerama albums and live shows) [1998-present (with brief hiatus)]
- Eric Bolivar - Drums (Bonerama albums and live shows) [2000s-present]
- OK Go - Joint EP 'You're Not Alone' to raise funds for Hurricane Katrina relief (You're Not Alone EP)
- R.E.M. - Live and studio collaborations (Various live performances) [2000s]
- Little Feat - Live and studio collaborations (Various live performances) [2000s]
Artists Influenced
- New Orleans brass and funk bands - Bonerama's innovative use of trombones as lead instruments has inspired other local bands to experiment with brass-driven rock and funk. (Various New Orleans band arrangements and performances) [2000s-present]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Bringing It Home | 2007-04-10 | Album |
| Bonerama Plays Zeppelin | 2019-04-26 | Album |
| Hot Like Fire | 2017-10-06 | Album |
| Live from New York | 2004-11-09 | Album |
| Live at the Old Point | 2001-10-16 | Album |
| Shake It Baby | 2013-04-23 | Album |
| Get You A Healin' Special Anniversary Re-Release | 2010-08-24 | Album |
| Bringing It Home | 2007-01-01 | Album |
| Live From New York | 2004-01-01 | Album |
| LIVE at the Old Point | 2001-01-01 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Ocean (Bringing It Home)
- Hot Like Fire (Hot Like Fire)
- War Pigs - Live (Live from New York)
- Bayou Betty (Bringing It Home)
- Heartbreaker (Bonerama Plays Zeppelin)
- Hey Hey What Can I Do (Bonerama Plays Zeppelin)
- Mr. Go (Bringing It Home)
- Mr. Okra (Hot Like Fire)
- Good Times Bad Times (Bonerama Plays Zeppelin)
- Black Dog (Bonerama Plays Zeppelin)
External Links
Tags: #brass-band, #dixieland, #funk-rock
References
Heard on WWOZ
bonerama has been played 23 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.