Ludwig.

Quintets. Specifically, the Ted Ludwig Quintet. For all but a couple of nights this year, Ludwig, a transplant from New Orleans who’s a whiz on seven-string guitar, fronted a trio (also featuring Joe Cripps on bass and Brian Brown on drums). Not content with simply being the city’s finest jazz act, Ludwig, with help from producer Rex Bell, secured all-star help for his sophomore album — New Orleanseans Michael Pellera (keys) and Tony Dagradi (sax), the leader of the internationally acclaimed jazz act Astral Project. “Shabang!” serves as a perfect name for the always swingin’ release.

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