By the second Friday, the old saying, “when the going gets tough, the tough get going” makes all the sense in the world. If you’ve been going to the Jazz Fest every day, and going out at night, now is the time to start pacing. The full schedule is here.
The Honorable South made quite a debut last year at the fest and they have been keeping up quite a schedule. I saw the young indie band at the French Quarter Festival and was impressed by how much they have improved in just under a year. The musicians were tighter and the lead singer, Charm Taylor, was much more poised on stage as she charmed a crowd new to their music.
The Panorama Jazz Band never ceases to amaze with their joie de vivre and musicality. Seeing them outside on the intimate Jazz and Heritage stage should be a real treat. Get ready to boogie because they play music from all over the world and it’s all very danceable.
Immediately after the Panorama is one of the youngest Mardi Gras Indian tribes on the streets today. The Hard Head Hunters are a Ninth Ward gang and they do some of the best sewing and beadwork you are going to see this year. Their Spy Boy was one of four Indians chosen to perform at the Jazz Fest press party in late March.
For jazz vocals, Cécile McLorin Salvant has had all the critics impressed with her soulfulness and original music. This is her first appearance at the Jazz Fest, so get to the Jazz Tent early if you want a seat. I expect it will be standing room only.
If sitting is not your style, but you still want some soulful female vocals, head over the Acura stage a bit earlier for Galactic’s appearance with their special guest Macy Gray. The funk powerhouse has been touring with another great vocalist, local star Erica Falls, who actually plays earlier in the day as well. Lots of soulful women today!
I guess you can include Gwen Stefani in that number as well. Her rockin’, funkin’ outfit No Doubt (pictured at top) closes out the Acura stage. They are opposite Chicago, a band I have never seen live, who are still hitting on all cylinders. It’s going to be a tough call.
Don’t forget the New Orleans Soul Stars Tribute to James Brown tonight at the Maple Leaf!
