Throwback
New Orleans native Kermit Ruffins was aptly born on the birthday of one of that city's most deservedly heralded masters of music, Professor Longhair. The 40-year-old trumpet player came blasting out of high school with the Rebirth Brass Band. Formed with tuba player Philip Frazier, the ensemble stormed across 10 years, several continents, and 7 albums before disbanding in 1992. Here reconvened, they've lost none of their exuberant flair and verve. The seven originals by Ruffins are mixed with numbers by the city's current elder statesman, Mac Rebennack, as well as Ray Charles, Mildred Hill's perennial "Happy Birthday," and more. Unobtrusively produced, the set bristles with the immediacy of a true celebration.--David Greenberger