New York-based rock-funk collective Circus Mind is back with a groove-laden, brass-filled celebration of everything that makes New Orleans so musically magnetic. Their latest single, “NOLA Song”, arrives just in time for the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and serves as a high-energy tribute to the Crescent City’s undeniable spirit. This acts as the follow-up to 2022 song “VOTE”.
Written by Mark Rechler and produced by Chris Fasulo, “NOLA Song” leans into a bold, brassy soundscape, channelling the rhythm and joy of a second-line parade, while still carrying the band’s signature New York edge. Circus Mind doesn’t just deliver a track—they set the stage for a full-blown street party. With funk, jazz, and rock swirling through its veins, this new track channels the spirit of a late-night jam session deep in the heart of the Big Easy. From its swaggering opening groove to its brassy, high-energy finale, the track invites listeners to join the celebration and lose themselves in the rhythm.
Jovial with an addicting spirit, this track is a blend that works and truly takes us into the heart of New Orleans. Speaking about the inspiration behind the track, bandleader Mark Rechler shared his deep affection for the city. “New Orleans is the single best place in the universe for food, drink, and a party,” he explained. “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.”
Circus Mind is no stranger to celebrating the sonic flavours of New Orleans. Their last album, “Bioluminate”, earned critical acclaim for its genre-bending mix of NoLa funk, rock swagger, and Beatles-esque pop flourishes. The current lineup features Mark Rechler on keys and vocals, Brian Duggan on guitar, Michael Amendola on sax, Matt Fox on bass, Steve Finkelstein on percussion, and Dan Roth on drums.
Known for their ability to jump genres effortlessly—whether it’s slipping into reggae roots, sliding into jazzy improvisation, or blasting off with guitar-heavy rock—the band’s musical range draws comparisons to Traffic, Steely Dan, Little Feat, and Mott the Hoople, while giving a respectful nod to New Orleans legends like Dr. John, The Meters, and The Neville Brothers.
Over the years, Circus Mind has built a reputation for unforgettable live performances, sharing stages and recording credits with the likes of Cyril Neville, Leo Nocentelli, Big Sam, Walter “Wolfman” Washington, and the Rebirth Brass Band. They’ve brought their vibrant sound to iconic venues including The Capitol Theatre, Brooklyn Bowl, B.B. King’s, as well as Jazz Fest and adjacent events like the Fat Friday Annual Mardi Gras Ball.
“NOLA Song”, by Circus Mind, is available to download and stream, right now, across all platforms, via Outhouse Music. The track sees Circus Mind invite us to join their musical parade—a vibrant, horn-laced journey that captures the essence of New Orleans with infectious charm and unfiltered passion.