First Listen: Trombone Shorty waits for "The Girls"
(March 23, 2017) Bolder, brassier, and bigger than the original recorded by Ernie K. Doe and written by Allen Toussaint, singer/songwriter/trombonist Trombone Shorty brings high-octane energy to the hidden 1970 gem, “Here Come The Girls.” With all the fervor and size of a Southern HBCU marching band, Shorty’s take is a dynamic, if somewhat militaristic exercise in New Orleans party band music. Reminiscent in some ways of the evolution of Robert Randolph and The Family Band, Shorty’s cover of the Toussaint classic is an update of rootsy Americana with a healthy dollop of rock, funk, and soul. Vocally, the song reveals a stronger and more assured singer with each passing album, impressive for an artist best known for his trombonist skills and horntastic charts. It’s clear why Blue Note Records recently decided to add the musical maestro to their ever-impressive roster of artists with future legend potential.
Produced by Chris Seefried (Andra Day, Fitz and the Tantrums), “Here Comes The Girls” is the lead single for Shorty’s April 28th release, Parking Lot, and kicks off a national tour for Shorty and his band, Orleans Avenue. The thrilling track definitely whets the appetite for the 12-song project, including Shorty’s take on The Meters’ “It Ain’t No Use.” In the meantime, get your two-step on to the ode to the girls.
By L. Michael Gipson
Trombone Shorty - "Here Come The Girls"