Get out your energy drinks, carbo load, eat a good breakfast and do whatever it takes to fortify your body and spirit because the four consecutive days of the second weekend of the New Orleans Jazz Festival presented by Shell are not for the faint of heart. Here are our picks for day two (or five if you’re in it for the duration). The full schedule is here.
Big Chief “Little” Charles Taylor (photo below by Skip Bolen) is one of the most respected Mardi Gras Indians in the tight-knit community. Known for his elaborate, three dimensional suits in the downtown style and his unmistakable vocals, he kicks off the Jazz and Heritage stage with his tribe, the White Cloud Hunters at 11:15 AM. Be sure to see an Indian every day at the Jazz Fest!
Last year, Tony Hall’s New Orleans Soul Stars were playing when the first of several massive waves of rain and wind hit the Fairgrounds prior to organizers eventually shutting the whole thing down. They persevered in the face of some of the worst weather I have ever seen at Jazz Fest. Here’s hoping the day is pretty when they reprise their tribute to James Brown.
The band will also be participating in the 10th annual James Brown Birthday Tribute on Friday, April 29, at the Maple Leaf Bar.
In what is arguably the worst kept secret at this year’s Jazz Fest, the Radiators will be reuniting for a few songs during the set by Raw Oyster Cult. The addition of “and some Fishy Friends” to the schedule couldn’t be a more obvious clue that bassist Reggie Scanlan and keyboardist Ed Volker will be joining their former bandmates, Dave Malone, Camile Baudoin, and Frank Bua who play in ROC.
Since I am always on the lookout for styles of music I have not heard before, I am excited to check out Sweet Pain featuring Chico Ramos and Supa G of Belize. They play punta rock—a modernized version of one of that country’s traditional styles.
Speaking of traditional music, Los Lobos, the granddaddies of Latin-American roots musicians, are bringing their traditional acoustic project La Pistola Y El Corazon to the Fais Do Do stage. This should be a great opportunity to hear a band that normally rocks out playing in a stripped down format.
The final slot of the day on Friday looks to be crammed with talent with something for virtually everyone. Paul Simon (pictured at top), My Morning Jacket, Ms. Lauryn Hill or Elvin Bishop? And that’s only the nationally known acts.
For more intimate stages, consider the Mardi Gras Indian music of 101 Runners or the sublime traditional jazz of Aurora Nealand and the Royal Roses.
