CLOSEUP is a series of documentary films, portraits of New Orleans musicians, produced by WWOZ Video.

Coming soon:

Tank and the Bangas is an in-depth profile of the exciting New Orleans band, as they surge to national prominence. The doc pulses with fiery poetry and the band’s infectious music that defies categories. Tank Ball was a national champion spoken word performer, later bringing her innovative word play and performing magic to the concert stage while creating a family of musicians. Filmed over a year, as their gigs went from their own backyard and small clubs to major festivals, the film traces their origin and journey with personal interviews, concert footage and a rare look into their artistic process, at rehearsals and recording sessions.

This band combines R&B with hip-hop's poetry and rollercoaster storytelling, with a flair and alchemy that could only come from New Orleans. At one moment fun-filled funk, the next laid-back jazz, rhythm-driven blues — and it all flows seamlessly. There's a magic kinship and it's fun to watch.  (Bob Boilen, NPR)

Previous CLOSEUP Documentaries

Trombone Shorty catches the internationally-known performer as he and his band Orleans Avenue rehearse for a homecoming concert in downtown New Orleans, blocks away from the Treme neighborhood where he grew up. In a probing interview with WWOZ's George Ingmire, he reflects on his musical mentors and influences.