Joy in the Mourning

You've heard about the marching Dixieland Jazz funeral that starts with a walking, mournful dirge down New Orleans' streets and concludes with a jubilant interpretation of "Just a Closer Walk with Thee" or "When the Saints Go Marching In." This funeral for New Orleans tuba player Kerwin James in 2007 has an elevated casket swing and dance sequence that would give any New York funeral director I know a massive heart attack. Everyone up here thinks "liability." You'll be touched by it though. Here also, for your betterment and listening pleasure, is a full, fabulous CD of funeral Dixieland jazz.