Back in 1982, Brock had arranged a concert for the band at the well-known local music venue Tipitina's, which was the first time they had played at a "white club" in New Orleans. It was a double bill with Danny Barker band. Barker and The Dozen were both apprehensive about the match-up: Barker about being blown off the stage and The Dozen out of respect and knowledge of Barker's deep roots and knowledge. The Dozen were recognized as the new energy and force that they were and Mr. Barker held his own as the elder statesman giving his blessing to the generations to come. Afterwards the band had one of its first international appearances, when Kidd Jordan recommended the band to the organizers of Swingin' Groningen in the Netherlands.