Filmmaker Statement

The Funeral Band isn’t a story about a brass band. It’s a story about of group of people bound by something greater than even family… tradition. These traditions surrounding death aren’t just relegated to New Orleans, it’s something we all must deal with. But I believe here in New Orleans, the true heart of the human condition is explored in a way that has more in common with ancient myths and legends rather than the the modern conception of a funeral. Second line funerals emerged from necessity. Before ALL people were allowed to purchase insurance, Social Aid and Pleasure clubs sprung up to make sure the people in their neighborhoods were taken care of when it was their time to go home. The same necessity drives the members of the “Thicker than Blood Brass Band;” to bury one of their own who has driven away all friends and family and has not created any good will throughout his life. So what’s left is duty and tradition. And John, is going to have to learn to honor those duties.