If there's a better way to bring in springtime that beer, brats, and brass bands on Lake Mendota, I can't think of one.

The last time Rebirth Brass Band played at the Union Terrace was mere weeks after Katrina, and they came to party despite playing on borrowed instruments and not knowing if their New Orleans homes still stood. As usual, Madisonians came out to support them in fine fashion.

Rebirth is still going strong and they return to the Terrace this Saturday (4/22). Mama Digdown's Brass Band (including yours truly) opens the show at 9:30 pm. As usual, it is free and all-ages.