Swinging in New Orleans

Swinging in New Orleans: The Holiday Session brings together a community of New Orleans musicians for a joyful reimagining of holiday classics and an original composition written by trombonist Stephen Walker. Led by Walker, the album reflects the shared artistry and musical connection that give this group its character and spark. The result is a session that captures the warmth, humor, and heartbeat of New Orleans during the holidays.

Each arrangement — by Stephen Walker, Connor Stewart, Trevarri Huff-Boone, and Grayson Brockamp — highlights a different facet of the city’s musical language: soulful swing, brassy celebration, modern harmony, and timeless groove. The ensemble shifts naturally between the fuller sound of a big-band horn section and the intimacy of a small group, with bassist Chisoo Kim and drummer Felix Allen providing the steady, driving foundation that gives each track its pulse. Pianist Karen Shiraishi appears throughout the album, with Joe Kennedy bringing his vocals and piano to “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” for a distinct flavor in the set.

From the jubilant horn lines of “Sleigh Ride” to the tender warmth of “The Christmas Song,” and the spirited sparkle of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” the album celebrates community, creativity, and the simple joy of making music together. Recorded at SINO Sound Studio and mixed and mastered by Matthew Shilling, The Holiday Session offers a vibrant and heartfelt addition to New Orleans’ holiday musical tradition.