NEDERLAND — The jazz artist known as “Blackdog” released his newest album in April, the first Blackdog album in over 20 years. He’s primarily released solo albums under his real name, Jon Ridnell, or duo albums with his son, Miles, as New Family Dog. Now, for his latest album, he’s embraced a new musical journey.
“I’ve been spending a significant amount of time in New Orleans, and I figured I’d go big and hire the best people I could down there,” says Ridnell on the new album, titled Freak The Funk.
These players included George Porter Jr., co-founder of The Meters, and jazz drummer Johnny Vidacovich, member of Astral Project.
Ridnell first encountered Porter and Vidacovich with Eric Krasno at the Maple Leaf Bar in New Orleans. They had a mutual connection with Jake Eckert, owner and engineer of Rhythm Shake Studios.
“I saw them do a gig and I put it together that I could maybe make it happen,” recalls Ridnell, “and I actually pulled it off by the skin of my teeth.”
Also featured on the album are pianist Luciano Leaes, vocalist Whitney Alousious, saxophone player Jason Mingledorff, trombone player Greg Hicks, and trumpet player Barney Floyd. This gave Ridnell the chance to learn more from these musicians and play music with heroes of his in an experience he considers a miracle.
“I’ve been in Colorado 30 years, and after I went to New Orleans, I realized I got soft,” says Ridnell. “It’s easy up here; the mountains are really laid back, and New Orleans is super competitive. It’s good for me; it keeps me on my toes.”
Performing in New Orleans has also stretched Ridnell’s work and collaboration with other musicians. His primary collaborator has been his son, Miles, who is prioritizing performing in Colorado, particularly with the newgrass group High Lonesome.
“It’s been hard to branch out away from my son,” says Ridnell. “We’re kind of a dynamic duo, we do well together and harmonize together. I miss him a lot, but the whole New Orleans thing has been great.”
Being able to expand his horizons musically has been an incredibly rewarding learning experience for Ridnell. He is thrilled about how the town of New Orleans and its cultural history have seeped into his songwriting on his latest record.
Blackdog’s latest album Freak The Funk is available wherever you get your music.
