New Orleans High Society

Biography

New Orleans High Society is a jazz ensemble founded in New Orleans, Louisiana, the historic birthplace of jazz. The group began with a weekly residency, where its members developed a unique approach to the New Orleans jazz repertoire, blending traditional jazz foundations with elements of Afro-Cuban rhythms, gospel harmonies, and modern trip-hop textures. This fusion of styles, shaped by the diverse backgrounds and musical interests of the band members, quickly set them apart in the city's vibrant music scene.

After playing together for over 18 months, the band recorded their self-titled debut album, released in 2020. The core lineup featured Cleveland Donald (trumpet, lead vocals), David Bode (saxophones, clarinet), Peter Gustafson (trombone), Yacine Sebti (piano, lead vocals), Steven Bohnstengel (bass), and Trenton O’Neal (drums, percussion), with special guest vocalist Angie Z. The album showcases their reinterpretations of classic New Orleans standards, highlighting both their technical skill and creative chemistry. Following the recording, Angie Z became a full-time vocalist after Cleveland Donald relocated to Marseille, France. Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, the band continued to plan new recordings and performances, maintaining their commitment to revitalizing traditional jazz for contemporary audiences.

New Orleans High Society is celebrated for their energetic live shows and innovative arrangements, which honor the legacy of New Orleans jazz while pushing its boundaries. Their collaborative spirit and modern sensibility have earned them recognition as one of the most exciting young ensembles in the city’s jazz community.

Fun Facts

• The band’s debut album was recorded after only 18 months of playing together, yet critics praised their chemistry as if they had played together for decades.
• Their sound uniquely blends traditional New Orleans jazz with Afro-Cuban, gospel, and trip-hop influences, making them stand out in the local jazz scene.
• After recording their debut, founding trumpeter Cleveland Donald moved to Marseille, France, prompting vocalist Angie Z to join as a full-time member.
• The album was recorded and mixed at Butcher Studios in New Orleans and mastered by Grammy-nominated engineer Michael Harvey at NOLA Recording Studios.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• New Orleans jazz tradition - The band draws direct inspiration from the classic New Orleans jazz repertoire and the city's musical heritage. (Interpretations of standards like 'Creole Love Call' and 'Lil’ Liza Jane') [2018–present]

Key Collaborators

• Cleveland Donald - Founding member, trumpet and lead vocals on debut album (New Orleans High Society (2020)) [2018–2020]
• David Bode - Saxophones, clarinet, and background vocals (New Orleans High Society (2020)) [2018–present]
• Peter Gustafson - Trombone and background vocals (New Orleans High Society (2020)) [2018–present]
• Yacine Sebti - Piano, lead vocals, and background vocals (New Orleans High Society (2020)) [2018–present]
• Steven Bohnstengel - Bass and background vocals (New Orleans High Society (2020)) [2018–present]
• Trenton O’Neal - Drums, percussion, and background vocals (New Orleans High Society (2020)) [2018–present]
• Angie Z - Guest vocalist on debut album, later became full-time vocalist (Lead vocals on 'When It’s Sleepy Time Down South') [2020–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. On the Sunny Side of the Street (New Orleans High Society)
2. Lil' Liza Jane (New Orleans High Society)
3. Down by the Riverside (New Orleans High Society)
4. New Orleans (New Orleans High Society)
5. Creole Love Call (New Orleans High Society)
6. Ice Cream (New Orleans High Society)
7. When It's Sleepy Time Down South (New Orleans High Society)
8. At the Jazz Band Ball (New Orleans High Society)
9. That's a Plenty (New Orleans High Society)

External Links

• Spotify