The Maison on Frenchmen Street usually hosts local bands spanning the spectrum of musical stylings in New Orleans. But occasionally they book a touring band, and when they do, the band is generally worth checking out. This Friday night, Houston’s own The Suffers make a stop at the club performing at 10 PM.
The band, which formed in 2011, will remind listeners of some of the acts appearing on the Daptone label, particularly soul shouter Sharon Jones. Fronted by the dynamic singer Kam Franklin, The Suffers also includes a full horn section and a super tight rhythm section.
While Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings come across as pure retro soul, The Suffers add a bit of Latin spice courtesy of percussionist Jose “Chapy” Luna. While the two guitarists also provide a rock ‘n’ roll punch to the 10-piece ensemble’s sound.
The band has garnered numerous awards in Houston and recently made their national network television debut on the Late Show with David Letterman. The host remarked at the conclusion of their song, “If you can’t do this, get out of the business!” They are also booked for the Hangout Festival in mid-May.
I don’t usually make predictions about the career trajectory of bands, but I suspect the next time they come to town, they will be playing a much larger room. Check ‘em out in the intimate confines of the Maison.
