He's the King of the Funky Drums, the Godfather of Groove, the Percussion Maestro who powered the inimitable sound of one of the most enduring and endearing bands ever to come out of New Orleans, The Meters. He's worked with Dr. John, Robert Palmer and Keith Richards, to name a few. He's written more than 200 songs individually and collectively with The Meters, and he's released three successful solo albums previously.

Now, Zigaboo Modeliste has proved once again that he is, at very least, one of the funkiest men on the planet with his new album “New Life,” out now on JZM Records. This album is so much fun, it practically gushes with joy. Opening up with a signature N'awlins rave-up titled “Les Bon Temps Roule,” Zig lets the cat out of the bag immediately and the good times roll throughout the album.

With guest appearances by bassist Kai Eckhardt, guitarist Shane Theriot, organist Joe Krown, guitarist Vernon Black, and a host of other A-list players, this album is so tight and funky I dare you to sit still. “At The Mardi Gras” is a party throwdown, certain to become a classic, as is “Keep On Groovin,” a funky little tune with a twist on the classic groove.

Lyrically, the album is filled with optimistic, upbeat messages of life, love and spirituality that make for a breath of fresh air in these difficult days where optimism is in short supply. Couple that with the relentless power and joy that emanates from the music and you've got one hell of an album that has the capacity to compel one to smile uncontrollably, dance like no one's looking, hug everyone around you, and make life a little better than it was before you listened.

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