Circus Mind – “NOLA Song” [Song Review]

New York-based rock outfit Circus Mind releases their latest single, “NOLA Song,” a track inspired by the soul and street-party atmosphere of New Orleans.

Talking about the Big Easy, bandleader Mark Rechler says, “New Orleans is the single best place in the universe for food, drink, and a party, it’s left an indelible mark on my soul and like many of us who know its gifts…. we yearn to get back there whenever possible.”

Made up of Mark Rechler (keys, vocals), Brian Duggan (guitar), Michael Amendola (saxophone), Matt Fox (bass), Steve Finkelstein (percussion), and Dan Roth (drums), Circus Mind has performed and recorded with Cyril Neville, Leo Nocentelli, Big Sam, Walter Wolfman Washington, and Rebirth Brass Band.

Over the course of their career, Circus Mind performed at Jazz Fest, Fat Friday Annual Mardi Gras Ball, Brooklyn Bowl, The Capitol Theatre, and B.B. King’s.

Circus Mind’s sound blends elements ranging from the swing of jazz to roots reggae, rock, soul, and funk.

Circus Mind, photo courtesy band

“NOLA Song” opens on a cool, funky drum shuffle topped by a rasping voice, followed by a braying saxophone riding a funk-rock groove that bubbles with jazz flavors. A plinking piano and brass accents give the harmonics a delicious swaying, sleazy motion. Rechler’s lusciously abrasive voice imbues the lyrics with animated energy.

Baked with love for the groove of New Orleans’ distinctive sound, “NOLA Song” brims with addictive, enthusiastic flair.

Run Time: 3:39
Release Date: April 11, 2025
Record Label: Outhouse Music