Toronto, ON, Canada – Purveyors extraordinaire of feel-good horn music, *The Heavyweights Brass Band,* celebrate their sophomore release, */Brasstronomical/*, with a special performance on *Thursday, March 6* at *Lula Lounge*, as part of the *TDJ Special Projects Initiatives*.
Although known for their energetic brass band covers of contemporary hits, with /Brasstronomical /the Heavyweights present a stronger, bolder and funkier more mature sound, with an emphasis on original compositions which still retains the players’ raw burning passion. Their latest release also feature collaborations with iconic national treasure *Jane Bunnett*, legendary percussion master *Giovanni Hildago* and JUNO nominated R&B singer *Jay Douglas*.
Inspired by the New Orleans brass band tradition, the Heavyweights keep one foot firmly rooted in the rich legacy of jazz, while the other steps forward into the future. From the gritty “St. James Infirmary Blues” to funky, modern originals such “Hypnosis” and “I Think I’m Going Crazy”, the album reflects their remarkable progress over the past three years since their debut.
Opening the night will be *Street Brass*, a community-based horn ensemble that plays brass music from across the Americas. The group is led by Christopher Butcher in collaboration with Uma Nota Culture. Special guests for the release concert include Jane Bunnett, Jay Douglas, Luis Orbegoso and DJ General Eclectic.
Designed to encourage the creation, development, and presentation of special projects by Toronto jazz musicians, the *TDJ Special Projects Initiative* provides successful applicants with a bursary, as well as with marketing and public relations support from TDJ. The final Special Project of 2014 is the CD release of Beverly Taft Meets the Nathan Hiltz Orchestra later this April.
[highlight]The Heavyweights Brass Band[/highlight]
CD Release Performance: /Brasstronomical/
Thursday, March 6 — 8 p.m.
Lula Lounge — [highlight]1585 Dundas Street West[/highlight]
