If there is one "feel good" kind of music, it is and has always been traditional Dixieland jazz. Even the blues played by a New Orleans band has a kicky kind of uplifting rhythm. A good example of this quality is "Weary Blues" on the New Orleans Stompers' latest release, with Norrie Cox's wailing clarinet leading the way.

Recorded live in 2001 with ragtime pianist Butch Thompson sitting in, this disc has all the qualities that propel the mind right into Preservation Hall in New Orleans. The music is multi-layered, with each instrument carrying off its line elegantly in solo and ensemble forms.

Any failings on the 11-track CD are in the process of live recording. The fading away of the cornet and clarinet do take their toll on the enjoyment of "Just a Closer Walk With Thee," and "She Looks Like Helen Brown." But there is an upside to the recording slips - the tracks sound closer to those cut by King Oliver and the original bands which came upriver and landed in Chicago during the early 20th century, before multi-track and digital recording took over.

There is lack of traditional jazz in today's market and this release will be enjoyed by aficionados. It is also good enough to attract converts...