Without music, life would be a mistake. Friedrich Nietsche
I have been coughing and spluttering all night. I think the ghost from the other night has given me a cold. Great, a cold for the flight back home. That’s gunna be fun.
I got out to the festival around noon. I started the festival with a
Yaka Mein and I am finishing off with a Yaka Mein for the last day as
well
I mentioned in an earlier post that the 50th anniversary
t-shirt I fancied had sold-out. I checked back at one of the
merchandise stalls on the off-chance that they may have restocked.
They have, and I have another t-shirt to add to the small
collection I have back home. There is a large marquee at the festival
that sells live recording of many of the artists performances over
the years (including this year). I knew that Los Lobos had been
recorded the other day and so I picked myself up a copy of their set.
I went over to Gentilly to watch *Jon Cleary and his Absolute Monster
Gentleman. Jon and band always put on a first class show The weather
is bearable, a little overcast with a cooling breeze every now and
then. Looks like today is going to be busy (punter wise) the track
around the Gentilly stage is already packed with seats. To be honest
I feel pretty crook, as the cold takes hold, I am determined to hang
in as long as I can for this last day of music in New Orleans, before
I head home on Wednesday.
*’Since moving over from the UK in the 80’s, Cleary has earned
a place in the front-line of New Orleans blues singers and
keyboardists. He won a Grammy Award for his CD GoGo Juice. At the
2018 Best of the Beat awards, Jon Cleary was named Songwriter of the
year and Best Pianist.’ – Offbeat Jazz Bible
Next on the bill, and again on Gentilly, is *Little Feat. They
started about 10 minutes late, which is frustrating as they can’t
make up time at the end. It would not be fair on other artists.. The
played a number of hits including, ‘Oh Atlanta’, ‘Fat Man In
The Bathtub’, ‘Dixie Chicken’ (with guest Popa John Gros), and
‘Feats Don’t Fail Me Now’. I enjoyed the set but I thought they
lacked some punch and jammed too long on their songs. Still I am glad
I saw them again. It had been a while. The early 70’s at Festival
Hall from (hazy) memory.
*Formed by the late Lowell George just after Frank Zappa sacked
him for drug use, Little Feat had some of the most fluid jams and
quirkiest songwriting in the 70’s. All four living members of the
classic line-up are still aboard (they’ve lost Lowell George and
drummer Richie Hayward), having shed a couple of later-day singers
they’re are largely back to the vintage sound and material.’ –
Offbeat Jazz Bible
I may get castigated, but I headed home at 5pm after Little Feat. I
wanted to stay at Gentilly for John Fogarty and then some of Buddy
Guy at the Blues Tent, to round out the 2019 Jazz Fest. I just feel
to sick to stay. Another Jazz Fest under the belt. It has been good
even with all the disappointments of the changes to the original
line-up announcement. Maybe I will be back next year, I know Wendy is
keen, my health is giving me the shits. I am just so God damn tired
all the time.
For
a list of all the ways technology has failed to improve the quality
of life, please press three. Alice
Khan
There has been a
heavy Thunderstorm overnight. It is still raining when I get up. At
eleven o’clock the Jazz Fest people have sent out word that today’s
opening will be delayed until 12:30. More depressing news, there is
another major Thunderstorm due around 4:00 pm. I made an executive
decision (Captain’s call) to not got to the Fest today. My
decision was to some degree based on the predicted storm but also to
the fact that John Prine would not be closing out the days music in
the Blues Tent (due to illness.)
William and I
decided to hit the MRB bar around 3pm. The back patio area is packed,
however, we managed to snag a couple of seats next to some out of
town, young party goers. Three people from Chicago and two from
Detroit. They seemed to take a liking to us and insisted on buying
drinks for us. Beer for me and William’s favourite tipple, Vodka
and diet coke. As the day wore on we were each given a shoe of Jager.
On one occasion I went into the bar and a local bar-fly (Byron)
thought I was Robert Plant, I guess due to me accent (he thought I
was English) and they way I looked? Now, don’t laugh, but this is
not the first time I have been asked the same question. If only they
heard me sing!
William and I went
into the bar to watch the live running of the 145th
Kentucky Derby. The race was run in foul weather, pouring rain and a
very muddy track. They race on sand for the Derby. The race was won
by the favourite, (Maximum Security), but then Maximim Security was
controversially disqualified due to interference on the home turn. I
read the next day that the President of the United States had nothing
better to do whilst running the richest and most powerful country in
the world, to Tweet that the Stewards were wrong and the it was Fake
News due to Political Correctness gone mad. Is this man fair dinkum?
What a moron he is.
William and I
wandered back home around 7 pm, both a little worse for wear. And
guess what? The predicted second storm did not occur.
There has been a
heavy Thunderstorm overnight. It is still raining when I get up. At
eleven o’clock the Jazz Fest people have sent out word that today’s
opening will be delayed until 12:30. More depressing news, there is
another major Thunderstorm due around 4:00 pm. I made an executive
decision (Captain’s call) to not got to the Fest today. My
decision was to some degree based on the predicted storm but also to
the fact that John Prine would not be closing out the days music in
the Blues Tent (due to illness.)
William and I
decided to hit the MRB bar around 3pm. The back patio area is packed,
however, we managed to snag a couple of seats next to some out of
town, young party goers. Three people from Chicago and two from
Detroit. They seemed to take a liking to us and insisted on buying
drinks for us. Beer for me and William’s favourite tipple, Vodka
and diet coke. As the day wore on we were each given a shoe of Jager.
On one occasion I went into the bar and a local bar-fly (Byron)
thought I was Robert Plant, I guess due to me accent (he thought I
was English) and they way I looked? Now, don’t laugh, but this is
not the first time I have been asked the same question. If only they
heard me sing!
William and I went
into the bar to watch the live running of the 145th
Kentucky Derby. The race was run in foul weather, pouring rain and a
very muddy track. They race on sand for the Derby. The race was won
by the favourite, (Maximum Security), but then Maximim Security was
controversially disqualified due to interference on the home turn. I
read the next day that the President of the United States had nothing
better to do whilst running the richest and most powerful country in
the world, to Tweet that the Stewards were wrong and the it was Fake
News due to Political Correctness gone mad. Is this man fair dinkum?
What a moron he is.
William and I
wandered back home around 7 pm, both a little worse for wear. And
guess what? The predicted second storm did not occur.
Begin at once to live, and count each separate day as a separate
life. Seneca
I had to renew my phone plan to cover my few remaining days. Brian
Wise has told me that he pays a $3 monthly fee so as to keep his U.S.
cell number. Might explore that option.
Overcast and humid, the weather for tomorrow (Saturday) is not
looking good.
Breakfast this morning at Jazz Fest was Vietnamese Egg Rolls and a
BBQ Shrimp Skewer.
Stopped in at the Blues Tent for the last twenty minutes of *John
Mooney & Bluesiana. Wicked slide-guitar.
Real enough to record for Ruf and Blind Pig and to sit in with
Snooks Eglin and Fess himself, Mooney more or less invented welding
Delta Blues to New Orleans funk. – Offbeat Jazz Fest Bible
Then over to the Lagniappe Stage for some of Susan Cowsill of the
famous Cowsill Family group from the sixties.
The humidity is bad today. Sitting in the Blues tent becomes sauna
like after ten minutes or so.
At 3pm I sat on the track at Gentilly and listened in to a full set
of the * North Mississippi Allstars with special guest Anders
Osborne. These younger guys sure know how to channel the old-time
Hill Country blues. Love it.
*Southern
rock and blues band from Mississippi, starring brothers Luther
Dickinson (guitar) and Cody Dickinson (drums.) – Offbeat Jazz Bible
By four o’clock I was back in the Blues Tent for *Sonny Landreth.
What a slide guitarist this man is. Totally unique. To think that a
few years back we nearly had him play at WOW, sadly, the tour was
canceled due to Sonny being ill at the time.
*’A thoughtful songwriter and scorching slide guitarist.
Landreth can claim the likes of Clapton, Buffett, Hiatt
and John Mayall as collaborators and fans’. – Offbeat
Jazz fest Bible*’
My last gig for the day (again in the Blues Tent), was the legendary
*Los Lobos. For me one of the highlight gigs of Jazz Fest. I enjoyed
every minute of it. I sat next to WOW member Geoff and his lovely
wife.
*They’re best known for two 80’s Richie Valens
covers in ‘La Bamba’ and Come On, Let’s Go,’ but this
five-piece band has been holding down the tradition of
Mexican-American music since they changed all the rules of Latin rock
with ‘Will the Wolf Survive.’ Too ahead of their time, they stuck
around through sheer tenacity (like the wolf) and now serve as
gatekeepers of border music from the Pacific to Port Arthur.’ –
Offbeat Jazz Fest Bible
There’ll be two dates on your tombstone. And all your friends
will read ‘em. But all that’s gonna matter is that little dash
between ‘em. Kevin Welch
First day of the 50th Jazz Fest. I am up late, last night
went longer than planned. Today (2nd weekend of the Fest),
was the Rolling Stones day. It will be interesting to see the size of
the crowd. A lot of people I have spoken to have received their
ticket refunds and did not bother with getting a replacement ticket.
I didn’t get out to the Fairgrounds until after one. Walked
straight in without the usual lines of punters waiting for the
security check. Food was an urgent requirement. I had a serve of Lamb
Tangine and Rice followed by a Crawfish Monica washed down with, an
oh so sweet Strawberry Lemonade. I must have eaten 20 Lbs of Crawfish
this trip.
It is an overcast day, humid, and then hot, when the sun breaks
through periodically.
I went over to the Gentilly Stage for Marc Broussard. Marc played at
FQF and I was not overly impressed on that occasion. This time around
however I like what I heard.
I stayed at Gentilly for *Rita Coolidge. She looked fantastic, all in
white. I was rapt to hear her sing, ‘Superstar’, from the epic
release ‘Mad Dogs and Englishmen.’
*‘You know the honeyed voice if you’ve heard the 70’s soft
rock rendition of ‘Your Love Keeps Lifting Me Higher’ or the epic
power ballad ‘We’re All Alone,’ but before that
Rita was one of rock’s most in-demand backup
vocalists (Leon Russell) wrote ‘Delta Lady about her). – Offbeat
Jazz Fest Bible
I have had my eye on a black and gold 50th Anniversary
t-shirt. Looks like everyone at the festival had the same mindset as
they have sold out already.
Over to the Blues Tent for a favourite of ours, *Eric Lindell. Great
as always. I hung around to buy his latest CD release from him. I was
rather pleasantly surprised that he remembered my name from previous
trips.
*Once a Californian skate- punk, Lindell had more success
as a blue-eyed soul and blues-man after moving to New Orleans. His
tight backing band explore the edges of Louisiana’s roots rock.’ –
Offbeat Jazz Bible
It has been amazing the number of people who say something to me when
I am wearing my Jerry Jeff Walker t-shirt. It is like we are part of
a mystical family of Jerry Jeff fans. Another guy has just told me
his Jerry Jeff story. ‘I saw Jerry Jeff in the early 70’s, he
came on stage four hours late!’ He had just finished his second
song, when he started to stumble backwards, doing a back-stroke
maneuver.’ ‘He crashed through the drums and promptly fell
asleep.’ ‘The drummer said, thanks for coming out to the show,
it’s goodnight from Jerry Jeff.’ The storyteller said all this
with a big smile on his face.
Pat must have seen me trying to get some photos and she came up to
say hello. She is going to hang in for Mavis Staples and then go over
to see her teenage heart-throb, Tom Jones.
My must see today is *Mavis Staples. She did not disappoint. For an eighty year old lady, she still has am amazing voice and energy. She at one stage said, ‘I am going to bring out my little brother.’ Trombone Shorty came out and lifted her performance even higher. You could see the great respect he had for Mavis. The Staple Singers with Pops at the helm were legendary in the sixties Civil Right’s movement. I was going to go and see some of Tom Jones myself, but how could I possible leave such a moving and riveting performance. I later read that Ton Jones had showed up at a Jon Cleary gig at Chickie Way Wah and sang a few songs. That would have been awesome. By all reports his Jazz Fest performance was top notch. And no, he did not sing, ‘What’s New Pussy Cat!’
*She’ll take you there. The Grand Dame of Gospel’s first
family, who stoked her street cred when the 70’s on hits like
‘Respect Yourself’ and ‘I’ll Take You There, is getting even
more respect today with her solo career; no one else at the Festival
except from Al Green combines the sexy throaty passion of R’n’B
with the sweet release of Gospel.’ – Offbeat Jazz Fest
Bible
I must say that the homecoming bus trips have been a breeze compared
to previous years. No long waits at all.
I had a knock on the door around 8pm and was invited in for dinner.
Rick is an exceptional cook. He brought all his cooking stuff down
from Kansas City. Had a Mexican soup with crushed tortillas,
baby-back ribs and some mustard glazed corned-beef. Very tasty.
‘It is no easy
matter to go to Heaven by way of New Orleans ‘ – Rev. J Chandler
Gregg
Wednesday in the Crescent City and one week of my trip to go. Where
have those days gone?
News has just come through that John Prine has had to cancel his
Saturday appearance at Jazz Fest. That’s a bummer as I had penciled
him in as a must see. To date these are the cancellations from the
original line-up. The Stones, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bob Seeger, Jimmy
Cliff and then Fleetwood Mac who were to replace the Stones. ‘What
a drag it is getting old.’
I went out early, and can proudly say, I have broken the back of my
gift shopping.
Today is Crawfish Festival day at Central BBQ. Doors open at 3. I
booked a United Cab and arrivds at 3:30. The outdoor area is pretty
wet with a number of puddles around. Must have been a brief downpour
that missed my place. Bugger, I forgot my seat.
The first act for the day is Papa Mali with Alvin Youngblood Hart.
Enjoyable set of music. There are a number of Aussies in the house.
Brian Wise and wife Karen with some of his tour group. Also Tony
Wood, Baz Williams and Bryce.
I got my serve of Crawfish and fixins’ which is part of the entry
cost. Must say I am getting pretty good at suckin’ the head and
pinchin’ the tail. Certainly not as quick as the locals, but
getting there. Another first, I have managed to keep my t-shirt free
of Mud Bug guts.
Part of today’s festivities is a Crawfish cooking contest. Ten
entries in all including the MRB bar. This is serious business.
Woodie from MRB recognized me from Stew’s party.
Next on the bill (and the reason I choose this day of the three day
festival), Anders Osborne and David Torkanowsky. Great music, more
subdued that when Anders is in full band mode. I took a few photos of
the Aussies around the festival.
Tony Wood and I had a couple of coldies and he told me that tomorrow
night, Fiona Boyes will be playing with Johnny Sansone at the Monkey
Bar. I know I will be too stuffed to go to that gig after the first
day of Jazz Fest (tomorrow).
I have recently been examining all the known superstitions of the
world, and do not find in our particular superstition (Christianity)
one redeeming feature. They are all alike founded on fables and
mythology. Thomas Jefferson
Not
a lot to report in on
today. Except of course my
(what is now)
traditional luncheon with William. For the last 5 years we have been
going to the upmarket Mr B’s on Royal Street. We go there
exclusively for the best BBQ Shrimp in town. You can check out Mr B’s
here http://www.mrbsbistro.com/
The restaurant is
one of the famous Brennan family businesses. Y’all can find the
recipe for the shrimp at the above site. Just turn a blind eye to the
amount of butter in the peppery sauce if you are on a diet. This is a
dish that is eaten with your hands, to save your clothes from getting
covered in the sauce you get to wear a paper bib.
Now I never like to
create controversy and I am very mindful of being political correct
(most of the time). However I have an observation from Jazz Fest that
I’d like to share. Please take my observation with the humor that
is intended.
I have noticed a number of (say) senior ladies dressed smartly, and on closer inspection, have had some work done to their faces. You know the ladies, no wrinkles, face skin unusually smooth. Botox, and this months new and expensive face cream made from Yak’s milk or something similar have warded off the ravages of time. They invariably wear shortish dresses and have a deep tan. The problem is, that when you glance down at their legs their skin in like an eighty year old rhinoceroses’ hide. I think there is a market for a new type of cream (would have to come in a very large container.) The cream would be used to get the said crinkly skin of the legs to match the odd looking smooth skin of those ladies that need to look younger. Just saying!
On the other hand, you have different fingers. Steven Wright
It has taken me hours to catch up with my blog. I have nothing much
planned for today. Recovery from 4 days of music is the priority.
I am meeting Stew and Carol at Three Muses on Frenchman. Stew has a
couple of Offbeat magazines that feature Luke Winslow-King on the
cover and he hopes to get them autographed.
I went over to the Louisiana Music Factory (also on Frenchman),
looking to pick up a couple of CD’s of Mr Sipp. I forgot that there
are live in-house performances on during the Jazz fest weekends and
when I got there Anders Osborne was about to perform. The store is
packed so I have put off looking for the CD’s until next week.
Stew and Carol saw me going into the market on Frenchman and caught
up with me. They have two friends with them that came down from
Michigan, for Stew’s party.
We had a nice meal at the Lebanese cafe, Mona’s. Truth be known I
was craving some lamb, a meat that is not readily available around
town.
Stew thought that Luke was due to start playing at 7 however the
start time is 8. He got his magazines signed and as the other couple
were flying out early the next morning they all left for an early
night.
Although I also should have an early night, I decided to go and get a
spot at the bar of Three Muses and await the show. Three Muses is one
of the smaller restaurant/bars on Frenchman. The stage is tiny and if
the band has more than four members someone always ends up playing
from the floor.
Luke started on time. He has Roberto Luti (Tuscany) on guitar, a
fiddle player and upright bass. I was standing next to a young
couple. They introduced them selves as husband and wife and local New
Orleans residents. They are both Academics. The guy specializes in
the Muslim population of China and more particularly their
persecution. He has been to China a number of times for research but
has been warned that if he ever went to China again he would be
arrested. The young lady, Laura, gave me her Business Card. She is as
Assistant Professor at LOYOLA University in the English Department,
in the capacity of Director, Modern Slavery Research Project. Both of
then are obviously very intelligent. They told me they lived in the
Marigny near Iggy’s Bar. They had come to Three Muses for Luke’s
performance as they are big fans.
I got to talk to both Roberto and Luke during their first break.
Roberto told me that he had lived in New Orleans for a number of
years but was kicked out for overstaying his Visa. This is his first
trip back to NOLA. Guess where he flew in from? Brisbane! He had just
finished playing at the Byron Bay Blues Festival. He told me the name
of the band he was with but stupid me forgot to write it down. Also
he has a very thick Italian accent.
Luke gave me his contact details. He is trying to get a tour of Australia together for next year, including Byron Bay. He told me he played at the Spotted Mallard in Melbourne not that long ago. I never heard of that tour as I would have went to see him. I really dig his music. WOW members. Keep your fingers crossed that we can get him to our club.
I stayed for all three sets. Finished the night with a nice
margarita. So much for an early night. I got back to my crib at
11:30. Peter was out front and he asked me how my night had been. I
said, I’m a little pissed’. He showed concern and asked me what I
was upset about. I had to explain to him the Johnny Sansone
definition of ‘good pissed’ as opposed to ‘bad pissed’ being
angry/upset.
A fool and his money are soon elected. Will Rogers
Stew’s 80th
Day One
First day of of the 50th anniversary of Jazz Fest and
ANZAC Day back home.
Well, well, well, the weather people are spot on. It is hissing down
today including thunder and lightning. A check of the web and the
opening of Jazz Fest has been delayed until further notice. That is
sad on many(weather) fronts, not least for the opening acts who now
miss out on their gig at the major milestone of Jazz Fest. I am
determined to go out to the Fest and await a break in the weather.
I got out to the Fairgrounds at 1 PM, two hours after the scheduled
opening. There are not a lot of people about. Mainly due to another
major weather front due at 3 pm. I am a little nervous as I make my
way through security. This is the first year that I have not
purchased a Brass Pass, due to the fact they sold out so quickly. I
purchased my tickets online and downloaded them to my phone. I am
thinking, what if my phone conks out, what if I can’t find them on
the phone. I am pleased to say that I have mastered the technology
and got in quickly. No lines at all, the sky is black as.
As is my first day tradition, I headed to Miss Linda’s food
concession and got a Yaka Mein. I had just slurped the last of this
wonderful soup and the heavems opened. I made a dash (slowly) to the
closest music tent. The Economy Hall Tent is the place to listen to
the more traditional type of old style Jazz. It is 1:45 and I am
going to be here for a considerable time as the rain is now
torrential. I am prepared with my rain jacket and waterproof booties.
I am doubly disappointed in the weather as I wanted to be at the
Gentilly Stage to see Amy Helm perform, Amy is the daughter of the
legendary Levon. It is just to damn wet.
Not to matter, as the *New Orleans Swamp Donkeys are playing some
great Dixieland Jazz. Locals always make the best of any weather
situation in NOLA. If you live here it is a fact of life that you are
going to get wet on a regular basis. James Williams, the Louis
Armstrong sounding front-man, sang ‘Up A Lazy River adding that
flows through Jazz Fest.’
*A Swamp Donkey is a member of a New-Orleans based traditional jazz band that plays old style jazz from the 1900s – 1930s. Founded in October 2012, they’ve already sold out major venues and rocked stages for thousands, in the United States and abroad.
The
rain had dropped down to a ‘light shower’ as I headed over to
the blues tent. Water lays heavily on the ground.
I
got there in
time to see the last few songs of Meschiya Lake and The Little
Big Horns. Meschiya always puts on a great show. As could be expected
the tent is packed with people.
My main aim today has been to see the Doobie Brothers. A band I last saw perform at Festival Hall back in the seventies. The rain has stopped. The Dobbies are on the main Acura Stage and because of the rain and mud the usually full viewing area is sparsely populated. It looks like a lot of punters have totally abandoned the day.
I
got myself a good spot and listened to some
great music. I even got to hear
the Doobie Brothers sing the classic Little Feat song
‘Dixie Chicken.’
I then realized that the keyboard player is Bill Payne who played
with Little Feat. Strange indeed, Little Feat will be performing next
weekend, I
wonder what Doobie song they will sing!
The
band broke into ‘Jesus is Just Alright,’
just as the sun broke-out for the first time today. The crowd gave a
huge cheer as they looked and bowed to the sun. The Times-Picayune
were not
glowing in the review of the set but I myself thought it excellent.
The last half-hour certainly rocked with hit after hit.
I
then made my way back to see the final few songs from *Toronzo
Cannon. I saw Geoff Proctor and got a seat next to him to catch up on
the gossip. I have a couple of Toronzo’s albums, he sure can play.
*‘Singer
songwriter and blues guitarist Toronzo Cannon grew up on the South
side of Chicago. His influences
include B.B.King, Albert Collins, Buddy Guy and Jimi Hendrix.’ –
Offbeat
Jazz Fest Bible
The
last act for today is Taj Mahal and the Phantom Blues Band. The last
time I saw Taj (here at Jazz Fest), he looked tired, and his voice
was a little thin. Not today however, he
was rockin’ like a twenty year old and his band were right behind him
in enthusiasm and talent. Jon Cleary and Ivan Neville were both on
keyboards. A great set of classic blues as only Taj can deliver.
Despite
the inclement weather it was a fantastic start to the 50th
Jazz Fest.
Day
Two
Weather
for day two could not be more different than yesterday. Bright and
sunny.
There
was a short wait for the bus, which in itself is different for New
Orleans Public Transport.
I
know the saying ‘it’s a small world,’ gets bandied
around a lot. However I seem to run into so many people I know, when
in New Orleans. When I got off the bus, I heard someone say. ‘is
that Rob Rowe?’ I was able to answer in the affirmative. Bugger me,
it is ‘Big Boy Lemonade,’ aka Andy Ogden. A fantastic keyboard
player from Melbourne who has been to Way Out West many times. I
asked Andy what he was up to as I had not seen him around our music
scene for sometime. He told me that he has been living
in Rhode Island for theses last 3 years and
is
married to
an
American lady.
For
the first time ever, I thought I would try and get a wrist band, that
would allow me to take advantage of the special seating arrangements
at the different stages. I showed them my MS card and got a wristband
for the weekend. I went over to the Gentilly stage to catch
*Bonerama. A New
Orleans favourite. They were excellent. The singers sixteen year old
son came out and played the trombone and sang liked a seasoned
veteran.
*
A
multi trombone band playing jazz, funk and classic rock. – Offbeat
Jazz Fest Bible
I
then went over to the Fais Do Do stage to see my friends Stew and
Carol who always set up their deck-chairs under a shady tree at
Fais
Do Do.
Tomorrow, I have the honor of being invited to Stew’s 80th
Birthday Party.
Back to the Gentilly Stage for another New Orleans staple, ‘*the Subdudes.’ I sat with Brian Wise, he also has a wrist band for special seating. He is limping as bad as I am and he told me he is having a
knee
operation as soon as he returns home. I know most of the Subdudes
tunes as they have been a favourite of mine for years.
*Tommy
Malone – fronted roots rock outfit draws on a mix of New Orleans
music styles along with plenty of groove.
– Offbeat
Jazz Fest Bible
By
3 pm I am at the Lagniappe stage for *Luke Winslow King. A young
blues slide guitarist with a real good voice. I love his style and
the way he treats his audience. Better than some people who are near
me and just want to talk among themselves. I HATE THAT.
*A
Michigan native who studied music at UNO, Winslow-King is both a
performer and musicologist combining the sound of early 20th
century New Orleans with the smarts of
a modern
songwriter. –
Off Beat Jazz Fest Bible
Back
to the Gentilly stage for a band that I know nothing about. The Heads
and The Hearts. Not bad and a band that Kate and Cara may like.
My
mission today has always been to go and see Santana. I trekked the
outside race tack to the Acura Stage. I went in at entry seventeen.
Another ‘small world’ moment. The Fess Security guy for that area
said
‘hey, I was wondering if you were over this year?’ He is an
African American who normally works
the
Abita stage at FQF. Told me that he did work FQF but at a different
stage this year. I said,’good
to see you again.’ as he gave me one of those cool fist pumps. ‘Boy
it is crowded in here,’ ‘I may have to try somewhere else to get
a viewing spot. ‘No man,’ he said, ‘you put your seat right
there in front of me!’
Just
before Santana was due on stage the big screens started showing the
Santana performance at Woodstock with the famous ‘rain chant’
blaring from the huge bank of speakers. All of a sudden the band
(Santana) started playing the chant live. It was pure magic. Lots of
hits including a masterful playing of my favourite instrumental
‘Europa.’ I can also state categorically that to hear ‘Black
Magic Woman.’ being played in New Orleans is
nothing short of surreal.
I
decided to finish off the day at the Blues tent with the Robert Cray
band. I know Mr Smith is not a fan, he just wants Cray to cut loose
on the guitar. I like what he plays, cool funky blues with the most
soulful of voices. I guess we all have slightly different tastes as
Blues fans.
Day
Three
Another
perfect weather day. It is back to normal with the bus frequency,
that is no bus for half an hour. I got shitty and hailed a cab.
I
got a hot-tamale from a Mexican street vendor and a home made
lemonade.
I
am comfortably
settled in the Blues tent for Johnny Sansone at 11.15. Killer set
with some extraordinary guitar work from John Fohl. Johnny introduced
his set with,’ good morning you morning people.’
By
12: I was at the Lagniappe stage for *Marshland. Really enjoyed the
show. They had a special guest come on (Robyn Barnes), who sang
‘Amazing
Grace’
seguing into ‘I’ll Fly Away,’ spine tingling. *Formally called
Nola Country, Marshland performs self-described ‘Louisiana
Americana,’ blending American roots music with Louisiana culture
and New Orleans improvisation.’ – Offbeat
Jazz Fest Bible
Back
to the Blues tent at 1:40 for
‘the New Orleans Piano Professors: Celebrating Professor Longhair,
James Booker, Jelly Roll Morton, Fats Domino Allen Toussaint and Dr.
John featuring the current Piano Professors – John Cleary, Davell
Crawford, Tom McDermott, Al ‘Lil Fats’ Jackson, David Torkanowsky
and John ‘Papa’ Gros. Standing room only in the Blues Tent for an
incredible rendition of fabulous music. Each artist performed a
couple of songs from each legend. A note regrading Dr. John who is
the only surviving older Professor. The good Doctor has not performed
for over a year now. He must truly be very sick to not even make it
to the 50th
anniversary. Someone told me, and don’t take this as gospel, that
he may have dementia?
At
2:55 *Mr Sipp (the Mississippi Blues Child)
has the place jumping and dancing from the first song. I know that
Wendy saw him perform last year and was very impressed. So am I now.
Great energetic show.
*
Singer
songwriter and guitarist Castro Coleman, a.k.a. Mr Sipp, is from
McComb, Mississippi. He started playing the guitar at age six. He has
won several awards for his Malaco recordings and was featured in the
James Brown movie ‘Get On Up’. – Offbeat
Jazz Fest Bible
One
show that I had earmarked before leaving home was Maria Muldaur’s
(Midnight at the Oasis) tribute to the bawdy Blu Lu Barker. I still
have visions of the 70’s self-titled album cover. I know we have
all aged but gee my fantasy is now destroyed. I hung in for a few
songs before heading back to my
crib. I have to shower and shave and generally pretty myself up for
Stew’s birthday bash which starts at 6:30 at Woodies @ MRB.
As
is my want I got the early and had an Abita at the bar. The guests
started arriving and we were direected to a hidden court-yard out
back. It
was very special to be invited to what is a family and close friends
celebration. About thirty people all up. I was made
to fell very welcome and
many of the guests
came over to introduce themselves and have a chat. I even got
mentioned in Stew’s speech as his good cobber
from down-under. Lots of New Orleans
food including a Crawfish Boil. The spiciest Boil I have ever eaten
in all my trips to New Orleans. Not that there
is anything wrong with that.
I
got back home around 10;30. Cheryl and her crew were sitting out on
the
balcony enjoying some night-caps and I was asked to join them. I did.
Gunna be tired tomorrow. Cheryl
told me that just before I got back, a couple of Aussies stopped
after seeing the flag. Cheryl explained why it was flying and that
she had been told to watch out for undesirables, apparently
the Aussies thought that very funny.
Day
Four
Very
slow
out of the block today. Another gorgeous day, as I headed to the
bus-stop. Saw a cool t-shirt, ‘I am not arguing, I am just proving
I am right.’ I ran into Brian and his wife Karen and we waited some
ten minutes for the Number 91 that takes us to the Fairgrounds.
Today’s
breakfast was a new taste sensation, Brazilian Cheese Bread with a
fiery Chili Sauce.
By 12:30 I wasz settled at the Acura Stage for another tribute. The music of Fats Domino and Dave Bartholomew. I have been abbreviating the name of the festival to Jazz Fest as everyone does. It is, however, ‘The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.’ The history of New Orleans music is very important to the festival, as it should be. The artists performing are Bonnie Raitt, Irma Thomas, Davell Crawford, Jon Cleary (he is everywhere), Al ‘Lil Fats’ Jackson and featuring the Fats Domino Orchestra. Great stuff.
Back
to the Lagniappe stage for the *Driskill Mountain Boys. Think
the Soggy Bottom Boys from
the movie “Brother Where Ought Thou,’
and you have the picture. Loved it.
*The
highest point in
Louisiana
isn’t much of a mountain, but the Boys can pick Bluegrass as well
as any in Appalachia Classics, original and real country humor to
boot. – Offbeat
Jazz Fest Bible
Over
to the Fais Do Do stage for *Roddie Romero and the Hub City Allstars.
I found me a little shaded
spot and listened to the music with my eyes closed. I may, if truth
be told, have nodded off. Nothing to do with the music as it was
first rate. Just tired.
*’Eclectic
Cajun, zydeco, swamp pop and rock ‘n’ roll.’ – Offbeat
Jazz Bible
Van
‘the Man’ Morrison is due on at the Acura stage at 5:35. I wonder
if we are going to get ‘good Van or bad Van?’. As I made my way
around the track I stopped at the Congo Square stage for a couple of
songs for the Rock ‘N’ Roll Hall of Famers, the O’Jays. A big
mostly black crowd
are jammed into the viewing area. The are very good, just not my
style of listening music. Old school, smooth as silk R’n’B love
songs.
I
got to the Acura stage and caught the last 30 minutes of Bonnie
Raitt, including the
song ‘Angel
of Montgomery.’ She then brought out Boz Scaggs to sing a tribute
song
to
Allen Toussaint. Guess what, Jon Cleary has bobbed up again, the
hardest working man at the festival
I
got settled in for Van, as I said he is due on at 5:35. To my great
surprise he started 5 minutes early. I think we got good Van, you
never really know as he never talks. I very much enjoyed the show.
Come
6:20 and I walked around to hear a few songs from Louisiana legend
Johnny Rivers on the Blues Stage. Johnny was added to the bill at
late notice due to the illness of Jerry Lee Lewis. Johnny had many a
hit song in the early 60’s. He is not a young man but looks fit and
healthy and his voice is very strong. I got to hear his version of
‘The House Of The Rising Sun’, as well as the classic ‘Rockin’
Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu.
Next
weekend I will take the camera with me to get some artists shots for
y’all. It is time to go home and rest. So much great music and
still another four days to go.
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle.
Then I realized that the Lord doesn’t work that way so I stole one
and asked Him To forgive me. Emo Phillips
Firstly my apologies for being five days behind with the blog. I
always have good intentions to blog each morning but once Jazz Fest
comes around I get so tired that I am always running late.
William called in this morning to say he needed to postpone our lunch
date at Mr. B’s, he is coming down with a bad cold. That sort of
worked out good as Pat also messaged me to say she is getting off
work at 1 and will pick me up to go over to the Artisan Bar for lunch
with Big Dave.
Betty and Steve came in late, from Kansas City last night, a thirteen
hour drive. They will be staying with Cheryl next door. Both Betty
and Steve have become good friends over the years.
It is an overcast day and the weather report for the first day of
Jazz Fest (tomorrow) is looking sad.
Pat arrived about 1:15 and we were at the Artisan within 10 minutes.
Big Dave was already eating a late breakfast. You do that here in New
Orleans. Your meals are not dictated by any given time. Makes sense
for a 24 hour city. Conner is our barman today, nice guy and very
friendly. I ordered the Chicken Alfredo and Pasta. Very tasty, but oh
so rich a sauce. We had a few Blue Moons (beer) but the meal has made
me feel very bloated. I asked Conner for something to settle the
stomach. He made me a Tonic and Bitters and it worked a treat.
Big Dave has been drinking a Margarita so I decided to try one as
well, Conner asked, ‘do you want it the same as I make for Dave?’
‘Sure do.’ It tasted divine, my new favourite Margarita that
includes Grand Marnier floating on top. They may well be lethal.
At 4:30 we pulled up stumps and headed for the free music at
Lafayette Square.
The
first band were called
Iceman Special, they are pretty good. Their music is described as
Swamp Funk. They will also be playing in the second weekend of Jazz
Fest. https://www.theicemanspecial.com/
The main band for
the night is Marc Broussard. We sat in for half the set and then
headed out. Big day tomorrow with it being the start of Jazz Fest.
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