One of the hottest jazz guitarists on the international scene today is performing at the Frenchmen Street Club tonight. Shows are at 8 and 10 PM.
Lionel Loueke, who is from Benin in West Africa, burst on the scene as a member of Terence Blanchard’s band after impressing the New Orleans-born trumpeter during the Thelonious Monk competition. He played on two of Blanchard’s recent albums and also appeared as a sideman with a wide range of performers including Cassandra Wilson, Herbie Hancock, Sting, Brian Blade and Santana.
He has his own trio called Gilfema, but this evening local audiences should be delighted with his sidemen. Our own Herlin Riley will be on drums and David Pulphus will be on bass.
Loueke’s sound is a hybrid between traditional African music and modern jazz. He vocalizes a lot during his performances, which creates a trance effect and is mesmerizing to the listener. He demonstrates his unique style in the captivating video.
