Lil Rascals Brass Band

Biography

The Lil Rascals Brass Band emerged in the 1990s from the Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans, a cradle of African American musical innovation and brass band tradition. Founded and led by renowned trombonist Corey Henry, the group was initially comprised of young friends from Tremé, each steeped in the city's vibrant second line and social aid and pleasure club culture. Their music draws deeply from the roots of New Orleans jazz, infusing it with contemporary energy and influences from bounce, zydeco, and Cajun genres, reflecting the city's diverse musical tapestry[2][7].

As the band developed, the Lil Rascals became known for their powerful live performances and their ability to blend traditional brass band sounds with modern rhythms and improvisational flair. Their 2001 album 'Buck It Like a Horse' is considered a classic, featuring tracks that have become staples in the New Orleans brass band repertoire, such as 'Rock with Me' and 'For the Love of Money.' The group has played a pivotal role in keeping the brass band tradition alive while pushing its boundaries, inspiring both peers and younger musicians in the process[3][6][7].

Despite facing tragedies, including the early deaths of several members, the Lil Rascals Brass Band's legacy endures through their recordings and the musicians they have influenced. Their sound remains a fixture at second line parades and celebrations throughout New Orleans, and their impact can be heard in the work of contemporary brass bands that continue to evolve the genre[1][4].

Fun Facts

• The band's 2001 album 'Buck It Like a Horse' is regarded as a modern classic in the New Orleans brass band scene, with tracks that are still staples at second line parades[6][7].
• Lil Rascals Brass Band was led by Corey Henry, who later went on to form the Treme Funktet, further influencing the city's musical landscape[2][7].
• The band has experienced significant tragedy, with four members lost to early deaths, mirroring the hardships faced by many New Orleans brass bands[1].
• Their music is renowned for its raw energy and is frequently cited by other musicians as a major influence on their own brass arrangements and performance style[3].

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Traditional New Orleans Brass Bands - The band drew inspiration from earlier generations of New Orleans brass bands, absorbing their repertoire, performance style, and community role. (Traditional songs and second line standards) [1990s–present]

Key Collaborators

• Corey Henry - Founder, leader, and trombonist; central to the band's sound and direction. (Buck It Like a Horse (2001), live performances) [1990s–present]
• Various New Orleans Brass Bands (e.g., Hot 8 Brass Band, New Birth Brass Band) - Frequent overlap in membership, joint performances, and musical exchange within the New Orleans brass band community. (Live second line parades, shared repertoire) [1990s–present]

Artists Influenced

• Hot 8 Brass Band - Cited Lil Rascals as an early inspiration, adopting aspects of their style and repertoire. (Second line performances, recordings) [2000s–present]
• Younger New Orleans Brass Musicians - Inspired by the Rascals' energetic style and modern approach to brass band music. (Contemporary brass band recordings and performances) [2000s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Knock With Me - Rock With Me (Buck It Like a Horse)
2. Buck It Like a Horse (Buck It Like a Horse)
3. Knock with Me Rock with Me (Ultimate New Orleans Brass Second Line Funk!)
4. Rascal's Got Fire (Buck It Like a Horse)
5. For the Love of Money (Buck It Like a Horse)
6. Sew Sew Sew (feat. Big Chief Monk Boudreaux, The Golden Eagles Mardi Gras Indians, Triple Threat DJ's & Lil' Rascals Brass Band) (Galactic Vintage Reserve)
7. The Doe (Buck It Like a Horse)
8. How You Gonna Tell Me (Buck It Like a Horse)
9. Knock With Me - Rock With Me (Where Y'at?)
10. Rasta Second Line (Buck It Like a Horse)

External Links

• Spotify