Description
Trombone Shorty – For True – Vinyl Record
Released on September 13, 2011, For True is the second studio album by New Orleans native and multi-instrumentalist Trombone Shorty (Troy Andrews). Following the success of his debut album Backatown (2010), For True pushes the boundaries of genre, blending jazz, funk, hip-hop, rock, and traditional New Orleans brass music. The album showcases Trombone Shorty’s virtuosity not only on trombone but also on trumpet and as a vocalist, solidifying his reputation as one of the most innovative artists in contemporary jazz and funk.
Born and raised in the Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans, Trombone Shorty grew up immersed in the rich musical traditions of his hometown. By the time he released For True, he was already celebrated as a torchbearer of New Orleans music, capable of bridging the city’s storied past with modern sounds. With For True, Andrews aimed to explore his roots while pushing his signature style, which he dubs “Supafunkrock,” to new heights.
The album features a stellar lineup of collaborators, including Jeff Beck, Lenny Kravitz, Kid Rock, Warren Haynes, and members of the New Orleans-based Rebirth Brass Band, reflecting both his local roots and his growing global influence.
Key Tracks and Themes
Buckjump
The album kicks off with a high-energy track featuring the Rebirth Brass Band. Rooted in the New Orleans tradition of second-line parades, “Buckjump” combines brassy exuberance with modern funk grooves, creating an irresistible call to the dance floor.
Encore
This track highlights Andrews’ skills as a vocalist and instrumentalist, blending soulful melodies with a driving funk rhythm. It exemplifies his ability to modernize the brass band tradition while staying true to its essence.
Do to Me
Featuring guitar legend Jeff Beck, this song is a fiery fusion of rock and funk. Beck’s searing guitar solos complement Trombone Shorty’s brassy improvisations, creating a dynamic interplay.
The Craziest Things
A collaboration with Kid Rock, this track melds funk and rock elements, showcasing Shorty’s versatility and willingness to experiment with different styles.
Dumaine St.
Named after a street in the Tremé neighborhood, this track pays homage to New Orleans culture. Its lively, celebratory vibe encapsulates the spirit of a city known for its resilience and joy.
Mrs. Orleans (feat. Lenny Kravitz)
A smooth and soulful track featuring Lenny Kravitz, this song blends funk with elements of R&B, highlighting Andrews’ ability to cross genre boundaries seamlessly.
Big 12
An instrumental powerhouse, “Big 12” showcases Trombone Shorty’s technical brilliance on the trombone and trumpet. Its intricate arrangements and funky grooves make it a standout moment on the album.
Lagniappe Part 1
“Lagniappe,” meaning “a little extra” in Louisiana Creole, is a vibrant instrumental that captures the improvisational spirit of New Orleans jazz.
For True
The title track encapsulates the album’s ethos: a bold, modern reimagining of New Orleans music that fuses tradition with innovation.
Produced by Ben Ellman of Galactic, For True is a polished yet dynamic album that balances tight arrangements with moments of improvisation. The production emphasizes groove and rhythm, with heavy bass lines, sharp horn stabs, and infectious beats forming the backbone of the sound. Andrews’ trombone and trumpet performances are front and center, showcasing his technical skill and charismatic style.
The album’s fusion of genres reflects Trombone Shorty’s ability to bridge the gap between traditional New Orleans brass music and contemporary styles like funk, rock, and hip-hop. This cross-genre appeal is key to the album’s accessibility and its critical and commercial success.
While For True is largely instrumental, its themes celebrate New Orleans culture, resilience, and the joy of music. Tracks like “Buckjump” and “Dumaine St.” are rooted in the city’s traditions, while songs like “Do to Me” and “Mrs. Orleans” explore more personal and romantic themes. The album’s title, For True, reflects Andrews’ authenticity and dedication to staying true to his roots while forging new creative paths.
For True debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Albums chart and received widespread critical acclaim. Critics praised Trombone Shorty’s technical skill, genre-blending creativity, and his ability to modernize New Orleans music without losing its essence. The album was seen as a testament to Andrews’ role as a cultural ambassador for his hometown, helping to bring its music to a global audience.
For True further cemented Trombone Shorty’s place as a leader in the contemporary jazz and funk scenes. His ability to blend tradition with innovation has made him a key figure in keeping New Orleans music relevant in the modern era. The album’s success paved the way for subsequent projects, including Say That to Say This (2013), and it continues to inspire a new generation of musicians to explore the intersection of jazz, funk, and other genres.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic sealed
Track Listing
Buckjump Featuring – 5th Ward Weebie, Rebirth Brase Band
Encore Featuring – Warren Haynes
For True
Do To Me Featuring – Jeff Beck
Lagniappe Part 1
The Craziest Thing
Dumaine Street
Mrs. Orleans Featuring – Kid Rock
Nervis Featuring – Cyril Neville, Ivan Neville
Roses
Big 12
Unc
Then There Was You Featuring – Ledisi
Lagniappe Part 2
