When I headed over to see the Po Boys Brass Band Friday night on the Jazz Street Stage I felt like I was walking into a really happening party. The musicians were excited to return to the stage for the second year in a row, and the audience was excited to see them. The band consisted of guitar, drums, tuba, and four trombones. I was particularly fond of the trombonists, and I'll certainly never turn down some good tuba. The "electric trombone" was a new sound to me and gave the band a more modern feel than some other brass bands I've heard. I have to say I do prefer the classic acoustic sound.

I was happy to hear the band perform many original tunes. I've heard a lot of cover songs during the shows I have attended at the Jazz Fest so far, so it was a refreshing change of pace. It was also nice to hear a local band; all members were affiliated with Eastman School of Music and proud of it. My favorite tune was called, "Blues in the R-O-C." The band's pride -- and talent -- made me feel good about my city.

I also enjoyed a tune where the band members hoped to bring the crowd down south to New Orleans. While I've never been to the city, I'm a big fan of New Orleans jazz and appreciated the attempt to bring us to the Land of Dreams.