This
first visit to New Orleans post-Katrina gave a closeup
view of the devastation still left behind. Buildings
still scarred, missing windows & walls, line the
I-10 corridor into New Orleans. The drive into the
neighborhood where Jazzfest is held revealed entire
neighborhoods that were still in ruins, destroyed
by Katrina.
The crowds pouring into the Jazzfest grounds seemed
small at first, but by mid-day it seemed like a good
turnout, something sorely needed this year. First
stop was to sample some of the countless food offerings
- try as many as possible during your Jazzfest goings,
it just adds to the sensory overload that is the Jazzfest!
Blind
Bryan Lee was on over at the Southern Comfort stage.
Bryan represents that N'awlins sound, and is a living
legend in this town! 'I'm your Braille Blues Daddy'
and 'Heat Seeking Missile' allowed Bryan to play
with his 'Baby', and add in his growling Blues vocal
style - a perfect combination! Anytime you're in
New Orleans, try to catch the music of J Monque
D., another icon of that N'awlins sound. J came
out to a standing ovation, introduced by his daughter
Jennifer, and told us all that 'next time you see
me, things won't be the same'. Ain't that the truth!!
Wandering back to Acura stage led us to Congo Square,
where Mary Griffin was sounding - and looking -
a lot like Tina Turner, in her cover of 'Simply
the Best'. Mary is blessed with a huge voice, and
was able to capture the attention of the entire
crowd quite easily.
Of course, with Keb' Mo' coming on soon, our stay
at Congo Square was shortlived. Once`settled in
to our base camp at the Acura stage, Keb' Mo' came
on showcasing his storytelling ability and intricate
guitar work as he sang of how 'she justs wants to
dance'. Keb' was right on, as everyone seems to
be moved by the music of this incredible cultural
event!
Click
here -
Our Fest Report of Jazzfest and the Beale Street
Festival
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