You can tell that we are full on into festival season in New Orleans when there are musical conundrums on a Tuesday night. Here’s a look a three live music options around town.
Two reggae powerhouses, the Wailers (pictured) and Duane Stephenson hit the stage at Tipitina’s at 10 PM. They are touring together to support their new single “A Step For Mankind,“ which was written by Duane Stephenson specifically to benefit the World Food Programme.
Stephenson is recognized as one of reggae’s most talented sons. He is promoting the release of his latest album, “Black Gold” and is joining the tour as special guest. This is Stephenson’s sophomore album, following the top-selling “August Town”.
In case you were wondering, the Wailers have gone through numerous personnel changes over the years. Though they have three new singers, Aston “Family Man” Barrett, the bassist who is an original member and one of the architect’s of reggae music, is still on board.
If you are in a jazz mood tonight, head over the Frenchmen Street. The saxophonist Rob Wagner is returning to for one night at Snug Harbor. His trio features Doug Garrison on drums and Nobu Osaki on bass.
For fans of true improvising jazz, check out Bodhi 3 at the Open Ears series on the balcony of the Blue Nile beginning at 10 PM. This show has no cover charge, but please tip the band.
The group features Mike Mito on alto saxophone and clarinet, Rebecca Green on acoustic bass and voice and Jeff Zielinski on drums and percussion. I have seen them perform and they are incredible; creating new music every time they play and maintaining a true group presence. Here’s a video from the show I saw at the Louisiana Music Factory-
