Flambeaux founder and bandleader Bob Gusch, who recently passed away, loved New Orleans jazz, and was most inspired by clarinetist/saxophonist Sidney Bechet. He formed Flambeaux ten years ago to transport audiences to the Big Easy, with his clarinet as the lead instrument and Micah Hood on trombone as the co-pilot and sparring partner. The classic repertoire of the band provides a springboard for spontaneous and spirited ensembles inspired by traditional New Orleans music. Tonight, Flambeaux carries on the legacy with long-time Albuquerque favorite John Truitt on soprano saxophone taking up Bob’s role on the frontline along with Micah’s brilliant trombone playing. The rhythm engine of the group is provided by the veteran team of Wayne Shrubsall on banjo and Mark Weaver on tuba. Flambeaux offers this Outpost performance as a loving celebration of the life and spirit of our very good friend, the versatile Bob Gusch, whose musical interests spanned not only New Orleans music but Brazilian, big band and more and whom we miss enormously.