Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro is the place to be tonight for two sets of soulful jazz courtesy of keyboardist Joe Ashlar. The group features Gerald French on drums and Todd Duke on guitar.
Since emerging on the scene in New Orleans, Ashlar has performed with a wide range of acts including a regular solo piano gig at the Inn on Bourbon Street. His influences are far ranging and he can be heard playing funky rock with Bonerama, stretching out on experimental music, grooving to Latin sounds and backing jazz vocalists in upscale settings.
Gerald French hails from the French musical dynasty, which stretches back to the earliest days of jazz in New Orleans. His playing is sympathetic and tasteful tempered by his warm sense of humor. For readers interested in the interconnectedness of New Orleans culture, French is also a Mardi Gras Indian.
Todd Duke has been one of the standard bearers of New Orleans jazz since his college days. He is best known lately for his work with the vocalist John Boutte. But his musical tastes are broad. Readers with long memories will fondly remember his work in the adventurous New World Funk Ensemble.
Sets are at 8 and 10 PM. (photo by Jeffery Dupuis)
