Marvin Gaye's 1971 release What's Going On's fusion of religious narratives and political overtones succeeded in solidifying Gaye as the most important R&B artist of his generation. In an ambitious undertaking, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band attempt to revive the soul of this classic album to commemorate the first anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. The Dozen's What's Going On takes this timeless message and allows it to flourish in a modern context.
Although having released 16 albums since 1984, the Dirty Dozen still walk in the shadows of mainstream popularity. The power, timing, and musical pedigree of their 17th album carries the potential to push their hidden talent into the light. For those unfamiliar with the Dozen, this album will be a pleasant introduction to a uniquely Orleans sound. As their name suggests, trumpets, saxes, trombones and sousaphones hold down the bulk of the Brass Band's lineup. Horn blares and loud instrumental hits that dominate brass music are used sparsely throughout What's Going On, creating a sound that straddles the line between jazz and R&B. The Dozen's exercise in restraint defines the album, and allows Marvin Gaye's soothing voice to echo through in their sound.
In their career, the Dozen have found success in musical alliances. Partnerships with Robert Randolph and The Big Wu have produced the band's more successful albums. Unfortunately for listeners, this trend does not carry onto this record. Comparison is the danger innate in a cover album, and the Dozen's guests just don't hold up to scrutiny. The band's genius on the instrumental work of What's Going On does not make up for the lack of vocal consistency. Chuck D of Public Enemy contributes on the title, and opening, track. It soon becomes obvious that D's previous talent has left him. His performance essentially ruins this timeless song, and taints the overall feel of the album.
Bettye LaVette and Ivan Neville continue the theme of vocal mediocrity on ""What's Happening Brother,"" and ""God is Love."" G. Love's work on ""Mercy Mercy Me"" proves to be the bright spot of the album. This track anchors the message which the Dirty Dozen are preaching, and pushes the albums other deficiencies into the background.
A year after Hurricane Katrina blindsided the U.S., New Orleans is still in a process of rebuilding. The Dirty Dozen Brass Band's revitalization of What's Going On seeks to provide the catalyst for the healing their native city needs. Although the vocals are lacking at points, the band's mastery of their instruments more than compensates for the albums weaknesses. The Dirty Dozens soul's seep through every track, manifesting a powerful album that gives the listener a sense of personal connection to a national tragedy.
