This weekend, Columbus’ New Basics Brass Band, purveyors of “party music for the masses” that combines jazz, R&B, New Orleans funk, and groove sounds, is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its founding. The band will honor this milestone with a performance at Natalie’s on Saturday, November 14th, at 10pm (tickets available here). The band has been making audiences dance and have fun since 1995, with several albums and other special projects on their resume. And the party is showing no signs of slowing down, as the band currently plays every Monday from 9 to 11pm at the Vanderelli Room (218 McDowell St., Franklinton), as well as other local and regional gigs. Bandleader and founding member Rob Maccabee was kind enough to answer a few questions about Saturday’s show and the band’s history – Keep reading for his thoughts on the occasion:
Is there anything special planned for Saturday’s show?
Rob Maccabee (RM): The most “special” thing is the new material we have been working on. Most of the show will be brand new. We may invite some of the members that have been in the band over the years to join us, too.
What have been some of your favorite experiences over the band’s run?
RM: My personal favorites have been playing SXSW and recording with Bootsy Collins & Fred Wesley. Brass & Grass at the Lincoln Theater last year was a highlight.
What have been your favorite places to play, whether in Columbus or beyond?
RM: Dick’s Den has always been a favorite. I personally enjoy Rambling House Soda Pop. Natalie’s is definitely at the top of the list. The best we’ve ever been treated was when we played the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
It is very rare for bands to stay together for 20 years. What do you think has been the key to the band’s longevity?
RM: Sheer stubbornness (kidding). The real key is like any other kind of relationship; it’s finding people who are committed to the same thing and who are willing to stick it out and work through things when they get tough.
What is planned for the future of NBBB? Any new albums, projects, or other special shows in the works?
RM: We will be recording an EP that will be out next year and we will continue to plug away at the steady Monday night gigs [at the Vanderelli Room].