Renowned New Orleans jazz pianist, vocalist, and educator Matt Lemmler has once again exceeded expectations with the simultaneous release of two distinct and deeply resonant albums: Powerhouse: New Orleans in Stride Volume III (Trios, Quartets & Quintets) and The Book of Psalms Volume I. Both albums are now available on vinyl, CD, and digital platforms via his New Orleans Jazz Revival label, with another highly anticipated release due in January.
Lemmler, a proud ambassador of New Orleans jazz, continues to channel the city’s rich musical heritage, blending its storied traditions with his personal artistic vision. His latest recordings reflect his dedication not only to preserving the cultural and historical legacy of The Big Easy but also to sharing its profound influence on his life and music through his dynamic performances, recordings, and educational efforts.
“Powerhouse: New Orleans in Stride Volume III” expands upon Lemmler’s earlier New Orleans in Stride series, bringing fresh vitality to the project with his unique piano skills and a talented lineup of collaborators. Co-produced by Lemmler and Misha Kachkachishvili, the album features an all-star ensemble of musicians, including drummer Brian Blade, saxophonist Joel Frahm, bassist Nathan Lambertson, and trumpeter Ashlin Parker. Together, they offer a captivating exploration of New Orleans jazz in trio, quartet, and quintet formats. The album’s opening track, “Powerhouse (Theme from Looney Tunes),” is a swinging tribute to the timeless animation music of Bugs Bunny cartoons, dedicated to comedian Robin Williams and Lemmler’s late friend, Colette Buis.
As Lemmler explains, "I used to hear this kind of music growing up with the great Bugs Bunny cartoons. This track is dedicated to Robin Williams and to Colette, who was a powerhouse in her own right, always bringing joy and humor into our lives.”
Other standout tracks include Lemmler’s soulful rendition of “The City of New Orleans,” a tribute to the classic song made famous by Arlo Guthrie, and a powerful, genre-defying take on the spiritual “I Am A Poor Wayfaring Stranger,” which creatively integrates Stravinsky’s “Serenata” to create an emotionally stirring fusion of classical and jazz elements.
A digital bonus track, “Come Sing Your Song To Me,” closes the album with a soothing, lullaby-like melody, rounding out the album with a tender touch.
"The Book of Psalms Volume I” is a deeply personal project born from Lemmler’s ongoing “Psalm Sundays: Live From New Orleans” initiative, a series he began during the challenging period when his stepdaughter was diagnosed with leukemia. Now in remission, Lemmler has compiled 21 Psalms and three canticles into this sacred solo piano and vocal album. Drawing directly from scripture, Lemmler’s compositions are infused with soulful melodies and inspired lyrics. He’s currently working on additional volumes, with plans for The Book of Psalms Volume II and Volume III to complete his ambitious musical journey through the Psalms.
"I’ve been composing music to the Psalms for the last two years, sharing them live every Sunday,” says Lemmler. “This project has been incredibly healing for me, and I hope it will bring comfort to others, just as it has to me and my family."
In addition to his music career, Lemmler serves as a jazz piano professor at Loyola University College of Music and Media in New Orleans, where he nurtures the next generation of jazz artists. His diverse career also includes performing with some of New Orleans’ most iconic figures and touring internationally. He has appeared at major jazz festivals, mass performances, and educational workshops around the world.
Known for his skillful arrangements and film scoring work, Lemmler’s contributions to jazz continue to inspire, and his latest releases are further proof of his enduring commitment to the art form.
Both Powerhouse: New Orleans in Stride Volume III and The Book of Psalms Volume I are available now through digital platforms, vinyl, and CD via New Orleans Jazz Revival.
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