Albert "Papa" French and His New Orleans Jazz Band

Papa Celestin was considered by many to be the most revered musician in New Orleans. As advancing age took its toll, Papa Celestin came to rely more and more upon his excellent banjo player, Albert French, and sent him on many occasions to lead the band in his own absence. Thus, shortly after the death of Papa Celestin and Eddie Pierson, the leadership of the band fell to Albert French, now called "Papa" French by Jazz fans all over the world as a token of endearment and in memory of the late Papa Celestin.

The magnificent performance captured by this historical recording session had the audience continually longing to break out in applause and with cries of joy at the magnificent music they were hearing, especially with the many unexpected musical delights, such as the mention of “Pete, Pete, and Repeat” (the wonderful Dixieland Hall tap dancers) in St. James Infirmary.

So wonderful was this performance, there had to be an encore, a sequel, and it, too, is available on A Night at Dixieland Hall, Volume 2.

In the Band: Albert "Papa" French, Banjo and Leader ~ Jeanette Kimball, Piano ~ Louis Barbarin, Drums ~ Stewart Davis, Bass Fiddle ~ Joseph "Cornbread" Thomas, Clarinet and Vocals ~ Waldren "Frog" Joseph, Trombone ~ Wendell Eugene, Trombone ~
Alvin Alcorn, Trumpet

The Music: 1. Rampart Street Parade ~ 2. Way Down Yonder in New Orleans ~ 3. Marie Laveau ~ 4. Shine ~ 5. Darktown Strutters Ball ~ 6. Mack the Knife ~ 7. Alabama Jubilee ~8. St. James Infirmary ~ 9. Twelfth Street Rag ~ 10. Savoy Blues ~ 11. Bourbon Street Parade

Format: Compact Disc (Audio)
Catalog: Nobility Studios 702A

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