It’s Bayou Boogaloo time! There’s also plenty of music happening at night. Here’s a look at my picks to pass a good time.
She’s been called the First Lady of Rockabilly and America’s first female Rock and Roll singer. Wanda Jackson is going to tear the roof off of Tipitina’s on Saturday night. She’s 74 years old and last year released a new highly acclaimed record, The Party Ain’t Over, which was produced by none other than Jack White (pictured below).
Hurray For the Riff Raff just released a new disc and they are the opening act.
Tonight, the Bayou Boogaloo kicks off and it’s going to be bigger and better than ever. With three stages along Bayou St. John and pleasant weather being forecast, I expect record crowds in Mid City. Click the link for the full schedule.
Papa Grows Funk also has a relatively new album on the shelves that was partially produced by Allen Toussaint. They close out tonight on the Orleans Avenue stage.
“Uncle” Lionel Batiste, the beloved bass drummer of the Tremé Brass Band, has been in the hospital, so at 80 years old it’s unlikely that he will be performing with the band on Saturday. But that’s no reason not to check out one of the best brass bands in the city. They hit at 2:45 PM.
Earlier in the day, one of the zaniest jazz outfits in the city, Neslort, performs on the Dumaine Street stage at 11 AM. Led by trombonist Rick Trolsen (pictured). The group’s name is his last name backwards and they are one of those bands that write fascinating music that just might have you chuckling.
Sunday at the Boogaloo features one of the most creative mixes of talent on any festival roster in town. Cliff Hines, and up and coming guitarist, kicks things off at 11 AM on the Dumaine Street stage followed by Camile Baudoin and the Living Rumors, Anais St. John and Evan Christopher. You could just camp out under the big shade tree all afternoon.
Though most people will be heading to Mid City for the festival, I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you about one of my favorite second line parades, the Divine Ladies. This group of very creative women starts their procession on St. Charles Avenue at Jackson at 1 PM. In years past, they have come out of a private streetcar complete with the brass band accompanying them. Last year, it was limos. Who knows what they have in store this year? I saw one of the ladies last weekend, and she wouldn’t tell me! See you there!
