Here’s what is going on in New Orleans music this week: a little bit of blues, some classical and a whole lotta facial hair.
Monday, September 22
Kristina Morales & the Bayou Shufflers
Spotted Cat @10 PM
New Orleans is rife with talented female traditional jazz vocalists these days! Kristina Morales & the Bayou Shufflers grace the stage of the Spotted Cat the first and third Monday of every month from 10pm-2am. Keepin’ that classic New Orleans sound alive!
Tuesday, September 23
Treme Brass Band
dba @ 9 PM
Every time I see the Treme Brass Band, I still think of their late bass drummer Uncle Lionel, who always had a smile, nod, and “how you doin’” for me in front of the Apple Barrel when I first came to New Orleans. Treme Brass Band remains one of the city’s premiere marching brass bands. Kermit Ruffins and many other recognizable brass players in the city have passed through the group at one point or another. In 2006, Treme Brass Band received a National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts. This is sure to be a great show, as always, but if you don’t catch them tonight, I’m sure you’ll be seeing them with a Second Line, somewhere, before too long.
Wednesday, September 24
The Felice Brothers & Spirit Family Reunion
Tipitina’s @ 9PM
The Felice Brothers are one of the few that have made the jump from NYC subway busking to big stages across the country. Their smooth and soothing Americana translates well to the New Orleans aesthetic. The group has toured with Bright Eyes and Dave Matthews Band. In 2009, they joined the Old Crow Medicine Show. They’re now touring in support of their new album, “Favorite Waitress,” out on Dualtone.
Thursday, September 25
Russell Batiste & Friends w/The Wild Tchoupitoulas, Mike Soulman Baptiste, Edna Karr Marching Band
Armstrong Park @ 4PM
Your weekend starts early with this lineup. Armstrong Park’s popular free “Jazz in the Park” series continues with Russell Batiste’s band bringing the lively funk/R&B/blues they’re widely known for. A Second Line kicks off this incarnation of the weekly event. The Wild Tchoupitoulas Mardi Gras Indian tribe was founded in the 1970s and morphed into a funk band that provided a launch pad for the Neville Brothers. They continue to this day—sure to be a great time in the beautiful weather!
Friday, September 26
New Orleans Beard & Mustache Championships
One Eyed Jack’s @ 9pm $15
Calling all mountainmen, hipsters, and cowboys—the time has come to be judged on the basis of your facial hair. Categories include Full Beard Natural (Over 8”), Full Beard Natural (Under 8”), Beard Freestyle, Natural Mustache, Styled Mustache and, not to exclude the ladies, Whiskerina. No rules for Whiskerina other than it must be able to stay on your face without using your (or others’) hands. Local celebrities serve as judges, Chris Trew hosts, The Breton Sound will play throughout the night, and there will be, of course, comedy.
Saturday, September 27
The Louisiana Philharmonic presents Enigma Variations featuring Benjamin Beilman
Mahalia Jackson Theater @ 7:30pm
Ok, heathens. Early autumn is bringing you some highbrow culture at the Mahalia Jackson! Youthful violin aficionado Benjamin Beilman will join the Louisiana Philharmonic to perform Enigma Variations, a composition that has been played across the world regularly since 1899.
Sunday, September 28
Aurora Nealand & The Reed Minders Sextet
Allways Lounge @ 9pm
Aurora Nealand has a beautiful voice and a firecracker personality. The AllWays circus-y front room vibe will provide a great atmosphere for this swinging, fiery band. Bring your dancing shoes and vibe out to the innovative and creative sound.
That’s this week’s lineup. We better see you out there!