Abbi Hübner’s Low Down Wizards: The New Orleans Brass Jazz Pioneers
Abbi Hübner’s Low Down Wizards are a German brass band that channels the raw, energetic spirit of early New Orleans jazz. Formed in Munich, the ensemble has carved a distinct niche in the European trad jazz scene, celebrated for their authentic revivalist sound and dynamic live performances that have filled clubs and festivals for decades.
Early career
The band's origins trace back to the late 1970s, founded by trombonist and vocalist Abbi Hübner in Munich. Hübner, a dedicated scholar of early jazz forms, assembled a group of like-minded musicians committed to reviving the polyphonic ensemble sound of 1920s New Orleans. Their early work involved deep study of classic recordings by pioneers like King Oliver, leading to their first performances in Munich's underground music venues.
Breakthrough
The Low Down Wizards gained significant recognition following the release of their 1995 album Low Down Wizards on the German label Tradition & Moderne. This record captured their energetic, street-parade-ready sound and established them as a leading force in the European traditional jazz revival. While not a mainstream chart success, the album became a cult classic, solidifying their reputation and leading to performances at major European jazz festivals.
Key tracks
Dippermouth Blues — Their rendition of this King Oliver classic showcases their mastery of the classic New Orleans collective improvisation style.
Milenberg Joys — A staple of their live set, this track highlights the band's driving rhythm section and Hübner's gritty trombone leads.
Doctor Jazz — Featuring Hübner's distinctive vocal delivery, this Jelly Roll Morton number exemplifies the group's joyous and raucous approach.
Panama — A showcase for the band's powerful, rolling momentum, this track is a definitive example of their dance-hall energy.
Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, Abbi Hübner’s Low Down Wizards maintained a consistent output, releasing albums like Get Happy and Low Down Wizards Live. Their collaboration with clarinetist and fellow traditionalist Thomas Savy further cemented their standing. The band's philosophy has always centered on live interaction, making their concert appearances the true heart of their career, where the complex, interweaving lines of trumpet, clarinet, and trombone come to life.
Fans of the group's traditional jazz explorations also enjoy the work of similar artists featured on our site, such as The New Orleans Footwarmers, another European ensemble dedicated to pre-1930s jazz. The Hot Antics share a similar commitment to the spirited ensemble playing of the Chicago and New York hot jazz eras. For a modern take on brass band energy, listeners can explore Mo' Roots Orchestra.
The music of Abbi Hübner’s Low Down Wizards is a regular feature on classic jazz and traditional music radio stations across our network. Their recordings are frequently played on specialist programs focusing on early jazz forms, Dixieland revivals, and live brass band performances, finding an eager audience among listeners seeking authentic, historically-informed sounds.
Listeners can discover the vibrant traditional jazz of Abbi Hübner’s Low Down Wizards on radio stations available through onairium.com, where their timeless New Orleans brass sound continues to resonate with a new generation of jazz enthusiasts.
