Brass Machine to Bring the Spirit of New Orleans to Life on Ellicott Street
“As far as I’m concerned, The Brass Machine is the biggest thing to come out of Buffalo since chicken wings!”
That quote from a fan says it all—and if you’ve ever experienced the unstoppable groove of The Brass Machine, you know it’s not far from the truth.
As we gather for the Buffalo Jazz Festival Prelude: A New Orleans Celebration on Sunday, August 10th, from 4 pm to 7 pm, there’s no better band to bring the Crescent City spirit to life than The Brass Machine. This high-energy collective, led by the ever-charismatic Kyle Yagielski, serves up a fiery helping of what they proudly call “brass gumbo”—a funky, joyful blend of New Orleans jazz. And they do it with a swagger and spontaneity that makes every show a unique experience.
Kyle, a versatile musician who swings between sousaphone and trombone with ease, is deeply rooted in Buffalo and deeply inspired by the sounds of New Orleans. His love for ear training, improv, and the rich musical history of NOLA shines through every performance. Whether he’s leading the charge or backing others with his unmistakable horns, Kyle brings the heartbeat of Buffalo and Bourbon Street to every note.
With past appearances alongside Earth, Wind & Fire, The Soul Rebels, and the Rebirth Brass Band, and performances at festivals like Borderland, Rochester Jazz Fest, Northwest Jazz Festival in Lewiston, NY, and Gore Mountain Music Festival, The Brass Machine has built a reputation for lifting spirits and getting feet moving across the region and beyond.
This special Sunday performance on closed-off Ellicott Street in front of Tappo Restaurant isn’t just a concert—it’s a celebration of Buffalo’s renewal, of community, and of the joy that music can bring to both soul and sole. With Tappo’s rooftop views, New Orleans-inspired food and cocktails, a closed-off Ellicott Street, and the unmistakable sound of second-line street music, this event promises to be a summer moment we all won’t forget.
So—where else would you rather be than right here, right now? Join us August 10th, and let The Brass Machine take you straight to the heart of New Orleans—Buffalo style.
