There are two festivals this weekend that I know of (besides Record Store Day celebrations all over town on Saturday) to get you in shape for the next ten days of hardcore Jazz Festing. There are also plenty of shows happening at night. Here’s where you’ll be.
Tulane University used to celebrate the WTUL Rock On Survival Marathon fundraiser with three days of music on the main quad. Neighborhood concerns eventually doomed the concerts. But for some reason, the college is able to put on Craw Fest every spring in the same place. Maybe the neighbors are able to tolerate one day.
Craw Fest is tomorrow and there are some fine bands playing all afternoon. The headliner is Galactic. Ivan Neville is on the bill as are the Soul Rebels and some lesser-known acts. Last year, we got to see a couple of buzz bands for the first time and I expect the same in 2012.
On Sunday, the city celebrates Earth Day with a festival on the banks of Bayou St. John. Cyril Neville is the headliner, but I am more excited about another chance to see Chegadão. This band is made up of well-known local musicians and they play Brazilian music. They hit at 4 PM. Click for the full schedule.
You can tell that we are reaching the peak of festival season when bands that don’t usually play at a given club are booked in the room. Tonight, George Porter, Jr. (pictured) and his Runnin’ Pardners are playing at D.B.A. I just saw the band and they are hitting on all cylinders. This is a chance to see one of the legends up close and personal.
Way uptown, the Bearded Oysters marching troupe is having a ball. Wait a minute, aren’t they always having a ball? The Maple Leaf Bar is hosting. There will be food from neighborhood eateries, a raffle and music from Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes.
Tipitina’s is the place to be Saturday night for the Craw Fest After Party. A super group of sorts that only comes together once is a while is on the bill. Dragon Smoke features Ivan Neville, Eric Lindell, Robert Mercurio and Stanton Moore. You know those last two from Galactic. See you there!
