Mayday! Just when you’ve survived the first weekend of Jazz Fest, weekend two arrives. This issue is filled with schedules, picks, and all of the other essentials for a second weekend at the Fair Grounds.
Deacon John Moore has been a fixture in the New Orleans R&B scene for almost 70 years. Moore has performed on the albums of such stars as Allen Toussaint, Irma Thomas, and Ernie K-Doe. Enjoy Emily Hingle’s chat with this local legend.
April 30 marks the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon. Amy Kirk Duvoisin celebrates the cultural contributions of Vietnamese Americans to the city of New Orleans while previewing the Ogden Museum’s upcoming show devoted to Vietnamese American artists. Finally, don’t forget Mother’s Day. Andrew Marin speaks with renowned restauranteurs about how they were influenced by their mothers, while Brooke Adams shares
on where to spend
Day in
May 2025
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Cover: Deacon John by Romney Caruso
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DEACON JOHN | SATURDAY, MAY 3 BLUES TENT, 2:45 P.M.
Deacon John sat in the latest incarnation of the Dew Drop Inn, colorfully describing the characters and entertainers that stepped, danced, and performed on its stage decades ago. Deacon John & the Ivories were the house band there in 1960. He raved when he reminisced about the vibrant nights spent at the Dew Drop. “It was the place to go because of the stars that were traveling that couldn’t
frequent the white establishments. You had Ray Charles, you had Little Willie John, you had B.B. King, Bobby Blue Bland, Ike & Tina Turner, and so many others mixed with the stellar local, regional stars, and assorted cultural characters. I was in heaven because I used to hang out here, too.”
It was here that Deacon John’s guitar playing talent was noticed by legendary producer/songwriter Allen Toussaint. The Dew Drop Inn was the perfect place to scout talent as its founder, Frank Pania, booked the best acts he could find. “Allen Toussaint comes up to the stage and says, ‘I sure like the way you play that guitar. You want to do some recording sessions with me?’”
Deacon John explained. “That was the best thing a musician could do as far as premium wages and benefits like pension money from playing on recording sessions. If you could get recording sessions, you didn’t necessarily have to play as many gigs. They usually were the top-flight musicians in the city that got to play on recording sessions because they could read music and make improvisational and creative contributions to the songs being recorded.”
Deacon John balanced live performance with studio sessions successfully, saying that
he can brag about never needing a day job. “I’ve done some remarkable things with my life. I’ve been able to support myself entirely by my music my entire life,” he proclaimed. “Not many people can say that.”
From backing the likes of Irma Thomas and Ernie K-Doe to performing at a variety of functions including debutante balls and even funerals, the guitarist/vocalist’s ability to adapt helped keep him in demand. “My secret was they were never able to put a label on me. A lot of the people who book entertainment would like to put you in a box. ‘What is he? Is he jazz, is he blues, is he funk, is he R&B, is he rap? What category can we put him in?’” he said. “I defied categorization because I was able to play multiple markets simultaneously. I’m just good and that’s all there is to it.”
Though Deacon John’s popularity grew, not everyone was allowed into the Dew Drop Inn to see his sets or any other shows. Segregation laws disallowed white people from entering Black establishments. Owner Frank Pania flouted “race mixing” restrictions, and he was arrested alongside some white patrons in 1952.
Deacon John said that living under segregation was “a double edgedsword.” He continued, “Living under segregation, in one sense, was a beautiful thing because it had the spirit of community. It was like one big family. It had the spirit of camaraderie and community all centralized because you couldn’t go to the white establishments. In another way, the division was there that you couldn’t enjoy the freedoms that were supposed to be guaranteed to you by the U.S. Constitution. We had to pass laws to get our civil rights and the right to congregate.”
DEW DROP INN RECORDED ARCHIVES
"Earl King had a newspaper that he hand wrote and drew cartoons in of the various going ons around the Dew Drop. Earl, he would drill holes in the hotel rooms in the doors and peep in and see what was going on and he'd write about it in his column. This was before Xerox machines, so you only had one handwritten copy, and he used to charge a quarter to read it, so after you get through reading it, here's another guy, he'd pay his quarter and he'd get to read it and find out what all the latest gossip."
– Deacon John
The passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 officially ended segregation, though Frank Pania had to sue to totally free his venue of forced segregation in 1967. Deacon John claimed that integration contributed to the demise of the Dew Drop Inn and many other Black businesses. “Now people had other choices. They were exercising their newfound opportunities from the passage of the Civil Rights law. ‘I don’t want to go to the Dew Drop. I’m going to the Blue Room.’”
Where the Dew Drop Inn’s entertainment program ended with Frank Pania’s passing in 1972, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival picked up in 1970. Deacon John proudly professed, “I’m one of the few performers alive that has played every Jazz Fest since they started in Congo Square. I played for Quint Davis’ prom.”
Deacon John has witnessed how well the festival highlights the city’s “indigenous culture.” He explained, “Through the years, there has been more and more big name entertainment, but New Orleans culture is still represented in Jazz Fest today. It’s just that many of the cultural icons are no longer alive. That’s what I miss most about the Jazz Fest. There’s new ones coming on, but things ain’t what they used to be.”
As the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival has grown from a small community music fest to an international phenomenon, the Dew Drop Inn has been resurrected by Curtis Doucette to encapsulate what New Orleans music once was and to introduce the next generation of local artists— coming full circle.
Deacon John praised Curtis’ work, saying as he toured the Deacon John Room at the Dew Drop Inn, “I’m so glad the right person came along at the right time to bring back what New Orleans is all about. This has an integral part in the indigenous culture. Curtis is recognizing the new talent and giving them a place where they can be heard and recognized as part of the indigenous culture and contribute to the ongoing progress of what it is now and beyond. It’s a place where we can preserve and perpetuate the indigenous culture that we all love so dearly.”
JAZZ FEST PREVIEWS
Higher Heights Reggae
CONGO SQUARE STAGE | 12:20-1:10 P.M.
The Higher Heights Reggae Band has been in the reggae scene since the 2000s and has been on tour for the Bob Marley Festival. This local New Orleans band has been invited to perform at Jazz Fest for over 20 years.
The
Nayo Jones Experience
WWOZ JAZZ TENT | 1:35-2:35 P.M.
Accomplished jazz musician Nayo Jones has become a fixture in Louisiana’s music scene, regularly performing at New Orleans festivals. Having opened for legends including George Benson, Jones promises to deliver a soulful, timeless jazz performance with her band as the Nayo Jones Experience.
Cedric Burnside
BLUES TENT | 1:40-2:35 P.M.
Memphis native Cedric Burnside, who is related to both Calvin Jackson and R. L. Burnside, promises an electrifying presentation of electric blues and hill country blues sounds. With his dynamic stage presence and unique sound, Burnside will showcase his groundbreaking take on the genre.
Morris Day & The Time
CONGO SQUARE STAGE | 5:50-7:00 P.M.
Back from the past, Morris Day & the Time are finally returning to the spotlight. Once sharing the stage with Prince himself, their stunning performances haven’t aged one day over the years. This year will be no different with a performance for the ages.
Santana FESTIVAL STAGE | 5:25-7:00 P.M.
Lost
Bayou
Ramblers
FAIS DO-DO STAGE | 6:00-7:00 P.M.
Grammy-nominated Cajun band the Lost Bayou Ramblers blends traditional Cajun music with folk, rock, and jazz. Preserving Cajun heritage and bringing it to the future, their high-energy live shows will surely bring out the spirit of everyone this year.
Alejandro Escovedo
FAIS DO-DO STAGE | 4:30-5:35 P.M.
A master of punk rock and alternative country, Alejandro Escovedo has gained a cult following for his work over the decades since starting with the Nuns in the 1970s. With his distinct blend of raw emotion and genre-blending sound, his performance should not be missed.
World-renowned Carlos Santana is returning with his band to play at this year’s Jazz Fest. With worldwide acclaim for his work such as “Black Magic Woman,” “Smooth,” and “Evil Ways, ” Santana will ensure this year’s Jazz Fest will be etched in history.
Festival Stage
Tamale de Pollo con Mole (Chicken Mole)
TEMPERO’S MARKET KITCHEN Y ELLA | CULTURAL EXCHANGE VILLAGE
Primarily focused on ethical sustainability, Tempero’s Market Kitchen has two decades of developing relationships with local restaurants and providing fresh ingredients. This year, they will serve their tamale de pollo con mole, which is a chicken tamale with Mexican mole sauce, to lucky festival goers.
Curry Chicken Pattie
PALMER’S JAMAICAN CUISINE | CONGO SQUARE
If you’re craving authentic Jamaican food while walking the festival grounds, make sure to stop by Palmer’s Jamaican Cuisine for their featured dish this year, the curry chicken pattie. Their menu also includes Jamaican chicken and steamed rice with veggies.
Gogo Borgerding
GOGO JEWELRY STUDIO | CONTEMPORARY CRAFTS
Someone to watch out for this year is jewelry artist Gogo Borgerding, who will be showcasing her dynamic sterling silver cuffs and other bold, statement-making adornments. The SCAD graduate specializes in metals and jewelry designs that are perfect to add to your festival wardrobe.
NOW AVAILABLE
JAZZ FEST PREVIEWS
Washboard Chaz
Blues Trio
RHYTHMPOURIUM |
2:20-3:05 P.M.
Led by iconic percussionist Washboard Chaz, this trio plays New Orleans street blues, combining the harmonica, guitar, and washboard rhythms. The trio delivers foot-stomping but simplistic sounds to the stage, rooted in Louisiana’s rich musical tradition. Their groove-heavy performances are distinctive with an infectious joy sure to get the crowd moving.
Kristin Diable & The City
LAGNIAPPE STAGE |
2:20-3:25 P.M.
Led by the powerful and smoky voice of New Orleans based singersongwriter, Kristin Diable, this band exudes a distinctly Southern sound that honors Louisiana’s rich musical heritage. The blend of soulful, folk, blues and Southern gothic influences create a raw and emotionally tangible sound.
Wesli of Haiti/Canada CULTURAL EXCHANGE PAVILION | 3:10-4:15 P.M.
After learning to play on a guitar built from an old oil can and fishing line at 8 years old, Wesli has since become one of Haiti’s most proud musical ambassadors. His energizing performances and blend of rhythms and lyrics with a variety of musical styles are an honor to witness.
Hurray for the Riff Raff
SHELL GENTILLY STAGE | 3:35-5:10 P.M.
Born in New Orleans in 2007, Hurray for the Riff Raff blends pop, punk, folk and bluegrass influences. The poetic lyricism of their songs, potent with social commentary, explore the theme of “Americana” through the ideas of journey, purpose, and human connection and condition for an evocative result.
Beausoleil avec Michael Doucet
FAIS DO-DO STAGE | 4:25-5:25 P.M.
Grammy award-winning Cajun band
Beausoleil avec Michael Doucet blends a variety of Louisiana’s beloved music styles such as zydeco, blues, jazz, and traditional Acadian fiddle tunes. Beausoleil brings an irresistible celebration of Cajun culture that continues to capture global attention for their tunes.
TOP PICKS FOR FRIDAY, MAY 2
Joan Jett and the Blackhearts
SHELL GENTILLY STAGE | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
With iconic vocalist Joan Jett at the forefront, this legendary American rock band is known for top-hits including “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” and “Bad Reputation.” Jett started playing rock ‘n’ roll as a teenager in a male-dominated scene, in the all-female rock band the Runaways, and she infuses her rebellious spirit into each performance.
Joshua Redman Group feat. Gabriella Cavassa
WWOZ JAZZ TENT | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
World renowned saxophonist Joshua Redman will bring his first ever collaboration with a vocalist, Gabriella Cavassa, to perform the music of his latest album, Where Are We. This new album features various genres as Joshua Redman and Gabriella Cavassa perform mashups of new and old works.
Boiled LA Crawfish
CLESI’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT | FOOD AREA 1
If you’re looking for some of the best boiled crawfish in the Crescent City, be sure to stop by Clesi’s Seafood Restaurant stand. Their menu also includes Louisiana crawfish étouffée and Cajun crawfish dirty rice, giving festival goers lots of traditional local flavors.
Lucky Dog
LUCKY DOG INC. | AROUND
THE GROUNDS
For nearly five decades, Lucky Dog has dominated the French Quarter with their unique kiosks and delicious hot dogs. Their Lucky Dogs are perfect for eating on the run or keeping one hand free while the other records your favorite sets.
Starr Hagenbring
HANDPAINTED SCULPTURAL CLOTHING | CONTEMPORARY CRAFTS Awardwinning fashion designer Starr Hagenbring will be blessing Jazz Fest with her stunning collection of exquisitely hand painted, sculptural clothing at her tent. Her arrangements are freeform top-stitched and each one of her designs integrate playful artistry and meticulous construction.
JAZZ FEST PREVIEWS
Pardon My French! LAGNIAPPE STAGE | 11:30 A.M.-12:30 P.M.
New Orleans’ charming French music ensemble blends vintage cabaret, jazz, and Parisian classics. Led by Broadway guitarist Pete Rozé and vocalist Caroline Fourmy, with Joshua Gouzy on bass and Michael WardBergeman on accordion, they transport audiences to 1920s Montmartre.
Charmaine Neville Band BLUES TENT | 12:20-1:10 P.M.
New Orleans jazz royalty Charmaine Neville and piano virtuoso Amasa Miller lead this dynamic ensemble, blending jazz, blues, and Caribbean rhythms. Their performances span traditional New Orleans jazz to contemporary fusion, showcasing Neville’s powerful vocals and exceptional musicianship.
Black Magic Drumline
JAZZ & HERITAGE STAGE | 3:45-4:15 P.M.
Xavier University’s Black Magic Drumline delivers explosive precision drumming and choreographed dance at Jazz Fest. Since forming as X-Factor in 2007, this dynamic ensemble has evolved into a cultural force, thrilling audiences with thunderous percussion, chanting, and high-energy performances.
Pearl Jam
FESTIVAL STAGE | 5:00-7:00 P.M.
Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Pearl Jam will bring their arena-filling sound to Jazz Fest, fresh off their 13th studio album, Dark Matter. Eddie Vedder and company continue pushing boundaries while staying true to their grunge roots and authentic rock approach.
Ledisi Sings Nina WWOZ JAZZ TENT | 6:00-7:00 P.M.
Grammy winner Ledisi presents her powerful tribute to Nina Simone, showcasing her masterful vocal range and emotional depth. With stunning orchestral arrangements, she channels the High Priestess of Soul’s spirit while adding her contemporary style and flair to these timeless songs.
Jessica Strahan
ACRYLIC ON CANVAS | CONGO SQUARE AFRICAN MARKETPLACE
Kenny Wayne Shepherd with Bobby Rush
BLUES TENT | 5:30-7:00 P.M.
Blues guitar virtuoso Kenny Wayne Shepherd will team with Grammy winner Bobby Rush, showcasing their Young Fashioned Ways collaboration. This powerful pairing combines Shepherd’s electrifying guitar with Rush’s soulful vocals and harmonica mastery, delivering an unforgettable cross-generational blues experience.
YaKa-Mein
MS. LINDA’S CATERING | FOOD AREA 1
If you’re in the mood for a savory bowl of yaka-mein, make sure to stop by Ms. Linda’s Catering stand. Also known as “Old Sober,” yaka-mein is a traditional New Orleans soup, and Ms. Linda Green has elevated it into a must have dish.
NOLA native Jessica Strahan is a muralist and painter who blends African influences and New Orleans culture onto her canvases with striking results. Art lovers should stop by her tent to step into windows of New Orleans’ past, present, and future.
Kathleen Walton
1 HIDE BAGS | LOUISIANA MARKETPLACE
Kathleen Walton will be presenting her “1 Hide Bags” to festival goers this year. Each bag is made from animal hides she has collected over her world travels and are hand crafted from start to finish into beautiful, one-of-akind, and fashionably sustainable products.
JAZZ FEST PREVIEWS Cfee Fesng
Avaib fine Grs
Zachary Richard
FAIS DO-DO STAGE | 12:30-1:20 P.M.
If you love zydeco, Cajun music, and poetry, check out the perfect set by Zachary Richard. He has a fierce attachment to the French language and Acadian culture as a Louisiana native, and his music and cultural activism is deeply rooted in preserving that culture.
Patrice Fisher & Apra w/ special guests from Mexico LAGNIAPPE STAGE | 12:40-1:20 P.M.
Jazz and Latin lovers are in for a treat when it comes to this performance by Patrice Fisher & Apra. The harpist and composer blends world sounds with original compositions with a twist of jazz music. This year’s set will be accompanied by special guests from Mexico.
Sonny Landreth
BLUES TENT | 4:10-5:10 P.M.
Known for his slide guitarist musical style, also called slydeco, Sonny Landreth is one to watch. His eclectic style of blues, zydeco, and Americana music has earned him two Grammy nominations. If you love the blues, come see the legend who has preserved its sound.
Marty Stuart &
His
Fabulous Superlatives
FAIS DO-DO STAGE | 5:30-7:00 P.M.
Country music lovers do not want to miss Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives, performance. The five-time Grammy winner has always connected with his audiences with his electrifying stage presence.
This is not a set you want to miss.
Woodenhead
50th Anniversary
LAGNIAPPE STAGE |
5:30-6:25 P.M.
Helping to close out Jazz Fest will be the great sounds of Woodenhead. The Louisiana natives will be celebrating their 50th anniversary at their set. You don’t want to miss this collaboration of seasoned musicians who showcase their skills with their original compositions.
Patti LaBelle
CONGO SQUARE STAGE | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
The Godmother of Soul, Patti LaBelle, will be captivating the stage on Sunday with her soulful vocals. LaBelle has achieved immense success over the past six decades. If you love old school R&B, Patti Labelle is the performer you do not want to miss.
TOP PICKS FOR
Kamasi Washington
WWOZ JAZZ TENT | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
You’ve probably heard his dynamic composer skills on Kendrick Lamar’s 2015 and 2017 albums. Kamasi Washington is an artist and composer who has received Grammy and Emmy nominations for his work over the years. Newcomers will fall in love with this jazz performance showcasing his saxophone skills.
Old Fashioned Hand Made Ice Cream Sandwich Cart FRANCOFONTE ON WHEELS | HERITAGE SQUARE & GRANDSTAND
It is important to stay cool during the warm Jazz Fest weather, so make sure to stop by Francofonte on Wheels’ cart for one of their old fashioned, handmade ice cream sandwiches. Their sweet and cold treats are sure to keep you going.
CONTEMPORARY CRAFTS
Originally from Toyama, Japan, Kaeko Maehata is a glass blowing artist who opened a studio in Augusta, Missouri in 1992 with artist Sam Stang. Maehata uses both old and new techniques, as well as color and form, to push the boundaries of contemporary hand blown glass.
Andrew Nichols ANDREW NICHOLS ART | CONGO SQUARE AFRICAN MARKETPLACE
Andrew Nichols is an artist originally from Brooklyn, and his work pulls from the triumphs and struggles of the African diaspora. His paintings invite viewers to challenge their perspectives, start conversations, and appreciate the beautiful cultural heritage of the African American community.
Monte Cristo French Toast
shaved ham, American cheese, bacon & home fries
Cochon Panini
slow-roasted pulled pork, Provolone, bell peppers, bacon jam, fried egg on a pressed panini
Shrimp and Grits
shrimp sautéed in a cream of garlic sauce over grits & served with white toast
Crab Cake Benedict
2 poached eggs, 2 sautéed crab cakes, hollandaise on a toasted English muffin
Steak Burrito
steak, home fries, eggs, Cheddar cheese, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, jalapeños, Chipotle
Southwest sauce wrapped in a spinach tortilla
Dirty South Bowl
shrimp, andouille sausage, garlic cream sauce over breakfast potatoes topped with Parmesan cheese
2 fried eggs, Cheddar cheese, crispy tortilla, black beans, red & green salsa, avocado crème
Cajun Cuban
Slow-roasted pork, onions, bell peppers, pickles, served on Ciabatta
Hangover Po Boy
Fried eggs, bacon, hot sausage, American cheese
Bananas Foster French Toast Served with bacon or sausage, sprinkled with powdered
Po Boy Pork Chop Benedict
Benedict
5/5
5/7
5/23
5/24
5/25
NIGHT SHOW PICKS
By Georgie Charette
LCD SOUNDSYSTEM
Wednesday, April 30 & Thursday, May 1, 8:30 p.m
Saenger Theatre, Tickets Start at $77.50
Electronic indie rock band LCD Soundsystem will take the stage at Saenger Theatre to transform the historic space into a dance haven on April 30 and May 1. With their unique blend of punk, rock, electronic, and dance music, the modern sounds of James Murphy and his crew will draw in fans of all sorts to enjoy the unique dance celebration. From their top hits including “Losing My Edge” and “Daft Punk is Playing at My House” to the indie punk sounds of opening band Gustaf, LCD Soundsystem’s distinctive lyricism and hypnotic beats are sure to flow through the evening.
A DREAM WE DREAMED: A NEW ORLEANS TRIBUTE TO PHIL LESH
Thursday, May 1, 9 p.m.
The Joy Theater, Tickets Start at $62
This one night only tribute to the late Phil Lesh brings a wide spanning lineup of Grateful Dead lovers and local music legends to honor the legacy of Phil Lesh. Bringing the eclectic rock sounds of the Grateful Dead to life, this show will feature artists from the Meters, Disco Biscuits, Dumpstaphunk, Wolf Bros, and others for a one-of-a-kind experience. Featuring some of the most widely acclaimed rock and funk artists of the past century, the performance set will feature beloved classics along with unique collaborations, making it a can’t miss event for Deadheads and music fanatics alike.
MELVIN SEALS & JGB
Friday, May 2, 9:30 p.m. | Saturday, May 3, 9 p.m.
Café Istanbul, Tickets $65
Don’t miss a stellar pair of shows presented by Melvin Seals & JGB, plus special guest violinist Mads Tolling, as they wing their way back to Café Istanbul for two rocksolid shows chock full of high-energy jams. The band’s New Orleans shows are always phenomenal, and the opportunity to spend a few hours with one of the most powerful and dynamic Hammond B3 players on the planet and his A-list band mates in the wonderfully intimate 400seat Café Istanbul is a rare opportunity indeed.
KARL DENSON’S TINY UNIVERSE: EXILE ON BOURBON STREET II “THE BOBBY KEYS CUTS”
Friday, May 2, 9 p.m.
Orpheum Theater, Tickets Start at $39.50
This unforgettable night with acclaimed saxophonist and flutist Karl Denson will feature musicians who have all worked with the Rolling Stones. Known for his funk and jazz expertise, Denson plays with the Rolling Stones and his own band, Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe. “The Bobby Keys Cuts” will feature Chuck Leavall, Ivan Neville, Bernard Fowler, and more beloved musicians to celebrate both the rock sounds of the Rolling Stones and the jazz melodies of New Orleans. Expect a genre bending evening where jazz, funk, and rock ‘n’ roll are twisted into a unique sound and performed with great talent by these widely-acclaimed musicians
Melvin Seals & JGB
Karl Denson
LCD Soundsystem
BACK TO THE FUTURE II
A Classic Rock Fan’s Guide to Jazz Fest
If you think the first weekend of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival couldn’t get any better, then you are in for quite the treat. By
If you like your guitars hard and loud, then look no further. That’s right, the second weekend of one of live music’s most significant events—not to mention the area’s greatest—commences on May Day, and some truly legendary rock and roll artists are set to headline at the New Orleans Fair Grounds.
As we take a trip back through the glory decades of rock, we’ll chronologically begin with one of the greatest guitarists in popular music history. Ladies and gentlemen, making his third appearance at Jazz Fest: Santana.
You know you’ve reached the pinnacle of success when your last name is all that is needed to evoke feelings of love and joy, or even hate and pain, but this living legend most certainly falls into the former category. By creating the perfect blend of rock, soul, and blues, Carlos Santana and his namesake band have stayed relevant for over 50 years. A winner of 10 Grammy Awards, Santana released his self-titled, debut album in 1969, the very same year they brought the house down at Woodstock by performing “Soul Sacrifice,” which was, in and of itself, a testament to the fact that some songs just kick way more ass when they are performed live and in concert.
In 1970, the Latin rock masterpiece Abraxas was released, and the contents inside and outside the album—with that glorious controversial cover—changed
Jeff Boudreaux
music forever.
Santana proved that he wasn’t relegated to one or two eras, unleashing the mostcelebrated album of 1999—the multiplatinum, collaborative beast Supernatural
His 2021 effort, Blessings and Miracles, mirrors the guitar icon’s spiritual growth in the twilight of his career, becoming the 26th entry in a very diverse discography. Prepare yourselves to be in the presence of greatness.
Remember that we’re all here because we love rock and roll. You know that Joan Jett does, since one of her biggest hits famously declared this affection. Along with her band, the Blackhearts, she’s been one of music’s preeminent female rockers for nearly 50 years. She may have earned a “Bad Reputation” while a member of the groundbreaking, all-female band the Runaways, with fellow talent such as Cherie Currie and Lita Ford, but who the heck would expect anything less? This woman came to rock, and with over a dozen albums under her belt and a 2015 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, she’s certainly succeeded. Don’t hate yourself and miss a performance that promises to rock Jazz Fest to its core.
If you wonder “Are You Gonna Go My Way,” then Lenny Kravitz certainly will, as he will be there at the New Orleans Fair
Grounds. The man has been rocking for over 35 years, once musically declaring that “Rock and Roll is Dead” in 1995—we all know he was just being facetious since it was his hardest rocking hit to date. Kravitz was such a big deal for rock fans in the 1990s that more than a few people openly mused that he was perhaps the second coming of Jimi Hendrix.
Yes, you have to give it to a guy who has won the coveted Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance four years in a row from 1999 to 2002—those are indeed record-breaking statistics. From the glory days of Y2K, with hits such as “Fly Away,” to his hard-rocking cover of the Guess Who’s classic “American Woman,” the rockin’ good times at Jazz Fest ain’t over ‘til it’s over. In other words, it ain’t until Kravitz deems it so.
Here’s another question: Do you prefer your “Even Flow” with or without the wah? An acceptable answer would be that it depends on the given mood, but you’d agree that any time is the right time to rock out to Pearl Jam. Eddie Vedder, Mike McCready, Stone Gossard, and Jeff Ament have been around for just about as long as Lenny Kravitz, racking up a discography that is frankly unequalled in rock and roll.
Born out of the Seattle grunge scene in 1990, their 13x platinum debut album Ten produced three hit singles: the aforementioned “Even Flow,” “Jeremy,” and
“Alive,” all of which would dominate rock airplay for the next few years. Thirty-five live/studio albums later, Pearl Jam have built themselves a dedicated fan base that rivals the Grateful Dead for one simple reason— they have carried the torch of classic rock into the present day.
Amid touring for their 12th album Dark Matter, the great folks at the Jazz & Heritage Foundation have found themselves a true, world-class headliner. They’re also as political as they come. Lest we forget, this is the band that once sued Ticketmaster, lost, and refused to even play at venues who worked with the ticketing behemoth. Now that’s conviction. At any rate, be sure to experience the iconic band that Rolling Stone called one of the “Top Ten Live Acts of All Time.”
Because we’re rock fans through and through, we’ll also take in the sets of localturned-mainstream national airplay favorites such as Better Than Ezra—who’ll leave us “Desperately Wanting” and waiting to hear lead singer Kevin Griffin belt out (God save the) “King of New Orleans”—and Fred LeBlanc and Cowboy Mouth, who asked why Mickey Dolenz’s success with the Monkees didn’t inspire more drummers to sing. Yes, this is going to be a magnificent week in the life of rock and roll addicts like us. Keep on rocking, friends, and we’ll see you at the festival.
MUSIC CALENDAR
SUNDAY, APRIL 27
21st Amendment Marty Peters
Allways Lounge Tuba Skinny
Apple Barrel Shwag
Bacchanal Noah Young, Tangiers Combo
Bamboula’s Midnight Brawlers, Youse
Bar Redux T Marie, Bayou Juju
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Ricardo Pascal
Biloxi Beach Bret Michaels
BJ’s Lounge James McClaskey, The Rhythm
Blue Nile Krasno Moore, Xavier Lynn
BMC Balcony The Budz
Boomtown Boomtown Brass Band
Bourbon O Bar Amber Rachelle, Sweet Potatoes
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk Bad Sandys
Buffa’s Bar Lynn Drury, Some Like It Hot!
Bullet’s In-Tune
Café Beignet Central Standard Time
Cafe Istanbul Garaj Mahal
Cafe Negril Caravan 504, Rue Fiya Allstars
Carrollton Station BD&TFDD
Chickie Wah Wah Andrew Duhon, Sgt. Splendor
Creole Gardens Mitch Woods Club 88 Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Dew Drop Inn Teedra Moses
Dos Jefes Michael Liuzza
Fillmore Delta Blues Explosion, Samantha Fish
Fritzel’s Mike Fulto, Sazerac Jazz
Gazebo Café J Riley Cain
Good Measure Jon Cleary, Pedro Segundo
Holy Diver The Pause House of Blues Rebirth
The Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass
The Jazz Playhouse Richard “Piano” Scott
The Maison Flow Tribe, Jenavieve
Tipitina’s Greyboy Allstars, North Mississippi
Allstars
Toulouse Theater Nate Smith, Kiefer
Virgin Hotels GLBLWRMNG, Pell
Tropical Isle Original Dave Ferrato, Dave James
TUESDAY, APRIL 29
Bamboula’s Caitie B., Giselle Anguizola
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Eric “Benny” Bloom
BJ’s Lounge Tuba Skinny
Blue Nile Wil Blades, Herlin Riley
Saenger Theatre LCD Soundsystem
Santos SPELLLING
Snug Harbor Delfeayo Marsalis, Uptown Jazz
Orchestra
Spotted Cat Shotgun Jazz Band
Tipitina’s The Daze Between Band
UNO Performing Arts Center Musaica
Chamber Ensemble
Bourbon O Bar Shawan Rice Trio
Buffa’s Alex McMurray
Cafe Negril Rue Fiya
Capulet Miss Morning
Chickie Wah Wah Dogs In A Pile, Osborne
Civic Theatre Shakey Graves
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
Dew Drop Inn Leo Nocentelli
Dos Jefes Tom Hook
Fritzel’s Jamil Sharif, Richard “Piano”
Scott
Hideout Bar Kid Merv
Holy Diver The Amazing Henrietta
Kermit’s Tremé Mother-in-Law
Lounge Irvin Mayfield, Kermit Ruffins
Vaughan’s Lounge Glo Worm Trio
THURSDAY, MAY 1
Bacchanal Raphael Bas
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Ricardo Pascal
BJ’s Lounge Punkadelic, Crush Diamond
BK House Kristin Diable
Beanlandia Treme Brass Band
Big Couch NOLA Pallas Players
Blackbird Hotel Craig Klein
Blue Nile The Main Squeeze
Bourbon O Bar Audrey & the Crawzaddies
Buffa’s Tom McDermott, Aurora Nealand
Cafe Istanbul Pimps Of Joytime, (late) Wil Blades & Friends w/ Jeff Coffin, Mike Clark + Bill
Summers
Cafe Negril Rue Fiya Allstars
Joy Theater Anjelika Jelly Joseph, Soul Rebels
Le Bon Temps Roulé Sput Searight, Bobby Sparks
Mahogany Jazz Hall Big Joe Kennedy, Roderick Paulin
Maple Leaf Bar Adam Deitch, Ari Teitel
Marigny Opera Maggie Koerner
Miss River Silver Lining Serenaders
No Dice Shmoo, IMY2
Old Arabi Lighthouse Brent Houzenga One Eyed Jacks Nate Smith, Eric Gales Plaquemines Parish Government Electric Ramble, Louisiana Landfall
Preservation Hall Preservation Legacy, Will Smith
Rabbit Hole Compersion Quartet Republic NOLA Water Seed
Rock n Bowl Chapel Hart, Zach Edwards Saenger Theater Trombone Shorty, Treme Threauxdown
Saturn Bar GITKIN, Money Chicha
Snug Harbor Bill Frisell, New Orleans Groovemasters
Spotted Cat Jacky Blaire, The Hot Biscuits
St. Pat’s Irish Celtic Music
Superior Seafood Johnny Lonesome The Broadside Toubab Krewe, Simple Tix
MASTER P BIRTHDAY BASH AT SMOOTHIE KING CENTER
The founder of No Limit Records Master P is throwing his fourth annual Birthday Bash in awareness of mental health. Featured guests this year include 50 Cent, Trick Daddy, DaBaby, Trina, and more. Friday, May 9, 8 p.m., $79.50 to $199.50, ticketmaster.com
MONDAY, APRIL 28
21st Amendment John Lisi, Delta Funk
Allways Lounge Betsy Propane’s Smokeshow
Apple Barrel Decaturadio
Bamboula’s Jon Roniger, Sugar & The Daddies
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Seth Finch
BJ’s Lounge Johnny Sansone, Jason Ricci
Blue Nile Red Baraat
Bourbon O Bar Vince Henningfield
Buffa’s David Doucet
Cafe Negril Gumbo Funk, Rue Fiya
Capulet Queen Bonobo
Carrollton Station Meryl Zimmerman
Chickie Wah Wah Giacomo Turra, Eric “Benny”
Bloom
Civic Theatre Fontaine’s DC
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Dos Jefes John Fohl
Fillmore The Revivalists
Fritzel’s Richard Scott, Tin Men
Good Measure Kiefer
Holy Diver Bobcat, Taylon Foyd
House of Blues Chicano Batman
Le Bon Temps Roulé GuitArmy
Mahogany Jazz Hall Original Tuxedo Jazz
Maple Leaf Bar George Porter Jr., Chris Adkins
Marigny Opera House Maggie Koerner
MRB Ben Buchbinder
Preservation Hall Preservation Brass
Rabbit Hole Robert “Sput” Searight
Saturn Bar BC Coogan
The Howlin Wolf Melanie MacLaren, Todd
O’Neil
The Maison Aurora Nealand, Gene’s Music
Machine
Three Muses The Rhythm Method
Tipitina’s Trombone Shorty
Toulouse Theater Stanton Moore, Robert
Walter
Le Bon Temps Roulé Pat Casey, Nir
Felder
Mahalia Jackson Theater Umphrey’s
McGee, Moe Mahogany Jazz Hall Big Joe
Kennedy, Leroy Jones
Marigny Opera House Maggie
Koerner
Rabbit Hole Rebirth
Rock n Bowl Javier Olondo, Asheson
Salon Salon Read the Sands
The Maison Eight Dice Cloth, Paradise
Jazz
Tipitina’s Doug Belote, Adam Deitch
Toulouse Theater Moe, Umphrey’s
McGee
Tropical Isle Original Dave Ferrato, Dave James
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30
Bacchanal Jason Weaver
Bamboula’s J.J & the A-Ok’s, Boardwalker
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Derek Douget
BJ’s Lounge The Iguanas
Blue Nile Big Sam, Corey Henry
Bourbon O Bar Serabee Quartet
Buffa’s Davis Rogan
Café Degas Double Whisky
Cafe Istanbul Brian Haas, Mike Dillon
Cafe Negril Jam-ilton, Rue Fiya
Capulet Washboard Chaz
Carrollton Station Whisper Party!
Capulet Mia Borders
Carrollton Station Grayson Capps
Chickie Wah Wah Jon Cleary, Lost Bayou
Ramblers
City Park Patrice Fisher, Arpa
Civic Theatre Daniel Donato’s Cosmic NOLA
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
D.B.A. New Orleans Roosevelt Collier
Dew Drop Inn PJ Morton
Dutch Alley Johnette Downing
Farmers Market Sam Kuslan
Joy Theater Moe, Dumpstaphunk
Le Bon Temps Roulé Soul Rebels
Maple Leaf Bar Eric Johanson
Marigny Opera House Siren Song, Maggie Koerner
Orpheum Theater Lettuce
Pavillion of Two Sisters City Park Patrice Fisher, Arpa
Rabbit Hole The Bottoms, SaxKixAve
Republic NOLA Anders Osborne, Fred Tackett
Rock n Bowl Chubby Carrier
Saenger Theatre LCD Soundsystem
Siberia Low Cut Connie
Studio Saint Philip James Singleton
The Broadside Dave Jordan, The N.I.A. The Press Room D’Batiste
Tipitina’s Julien Baker, TORRES
Toulouse Theater Stanton Moore, Mike Dillon
Vaughan’s Lounge Corey Henry, Treme Funktet
Chickie Wah Wah Dan Penn, Patterson Hood
City Park Botanical Gardens Asheson, Enrique
Civic Theatre The Radiators
Constantinople Stage André Bohren
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
D.B.A. New Orleans Jimi Meets Funk
Dew Drop Inn Tarriona ‘Tank’ Ball
Dos Jefes Dale Spalding
Enrique Alferez Sculpture Garden Javier Olondo, Asheson
Fillmore Acid Bath
Fritzel’s Bourbon Street Stars, Hunter Burgamy
Hideout Bar Jamie Lynn Vessels
Le Bon Temps Roulé Barakat, Sam Fribush
Longue Vue House & Gardens Mia Borders, Jesse Morrow
Mahalia Jackson Theater George Porter Jr., The Headhunters
Mahogany Jazz Hall Paul Longstreth, Tom
Fischer
Maple Leaf Bar Zach Edwards
Marigny Opera House Maggie Koerner
MRB Lynn Drury
NOPSI hotel Nell Simmons-Bradley
Preservation Hall Branden Lewis
Rock n Bowl Junior Lacrosse, Sumtin Sneaky
Virgin Hotels Marcus Machado, Jaime Woods
FRIDAY, MAY 2
Bacchanal David Sigler, Willie Green
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Ed Perkins
BJ’s Lounge Deslondes
Blue Nile Kermit Ruffins, Marco Benevento
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys
Buffa’s Adam Rogers, Johnny Sansone
Cafe Istanbul Melvin Seals & JGB
Cafe Negril Rue Fiya Allstars
Carrollton Station Andrew Duhon
Celebration Hall Sporty’s Brass Band
Chickie Wah Wah Papa Mali, Michael Mayo
Civic Theatre CimaFunk, Robert Randolph
Creole Gardens Mitch Woods Club 88
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Deutsches Haus Ladies Choir, Men’s Choir
Fillmore Joe Russo
Good Measure Nic Payton, Karriem Riggins
House of Blues Tab Benoit
Joy Theater Mike Gordon
Le Bon Temps Roulé Grits & Greens, Colin Davis
Madame Vic’s Ingrid Lucia
Marigny Opera House Siren Song, Maggie Koerner
Orpheum Theater Karl Denson
Parc Hardy Corey Ledet, Geno Delafose
Rabbit Hole Juan Maclean, Lost Bayou
Ramblers
Republic NOLA Eric Krasno, Jennifer Hartswick
Rock n Bowl Bonerama, Sonny Landreth
Saenger Theatre JJ Grey, Mofro
Seawitch Silver Lining Serenaders
Siberia Low Cut Connie
Silk Road Johnny Lonesome
Spotted Cat Dirty Tuba, Paradise Jazz
The Broadside Ghalia Volt, Luther Dickinson
Tipitina’s Galactic, Jelly Joseph
Toulouse Theater Btterfly Quintet
Virgin Hotels Kirkland Green
SATURDAY, MAY 3
Allways Lounge Angie Z
Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell
Bacchanal Amari Ansari, Boma Bango
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Ricardo Pascal
BJ’s Lounge Washboard Chaz
Blue Nile Big Sam’s Funky Nation, Holy GhostNote
Buffa’s Black Dog
Streetbeat
Dew Drop Inn Craig
Robinson
Fillmore Bill Murray, Joe
Russo
Good Measure The Altons
Joy Theater Robert Glasper
Le Bon Temps Roulé Billy Iuso, The Quickening
Orpheum Theater Remi Wolf
Parc Hardy Cajun Roots, Jeffery Broussard
Rabbit Hole 007 Rock Steady
Rock n Bowl Dale Watson
Saenger Theatre Tom Jones
Siberia Bermuda Search Party
The Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band
Tipitina’s Dumpstaphunk, FiyaPowa!
Toulouse Theater Skerik, Adam Deitch
Virgin Hotels Ten Spencer, Danny Abel
MONDAY, MAY 5
Allways Lounge Betsy Propane’s Smokeshow
Apple Barrel Mark Appleford
BJ’s Lounge John Boutte, Jon Cleary
Blue Nile The Nth Power
Buffa’s David Doucet
Cafe Istanbul Melvin Seals & JGB, (late) The Abbey Roads w/ Reed Mathis, Aron Magner, Nikki Glaspie + Jason Fraticelli
Cafe Negril Rue Fiya Allstars
Carrollton Station Mia Borders
Chickie Wah Wah Eddie 9V, Ghost-Note
Civic Theatre Anders Osborne, Dave Malone
Creole Gardens Mitch Woods Club 88
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Dew Drop Inn Big Freedia
Fillmore Joe Russo
House of Blues HEALTH, The Iceman Special
JCC Tony Dagradi, Steve Masakowski
Joy Theater Lettuce, Dumpstaphunk
Le Bon Temps Roulé Slugger Steve Kelly
Parc Hardy Amis Du Teche, Nathan Williams
Rabbit Hole Sally
Baby Rock n Bowl
Cowboy Mouth, Amanda Shaw
Saenger Theatre
Wilco, Teskey
Brothers
Siberia Pynk Beard, Que Beleza
Silk Road Johnny Lonesome
Spotted Cat
Panorama Jazz Band, Soul Brass Band, The Broadside
Honey Island Swamp, Son Rompe
Pera
The Howlin Wolf
Sara Zamora
Tipitina’s Neal
Francis Toulouse Theater
Skerik, Adam Deitch
Cafe Istanbul John Boutté, James Singleton
Carrollton Station Meryl Zimmerman
Chickie Wah Wah Ed Volker, Dave Malone
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Da Jump Off Lounge Big 6 Brass
Dos Jefes John Fohl
Fillmore George Clinton
French Market Cristina Kaminis
House of Blues The Altons, Thee Sinseers
Lafreniere Park Partners n Crime, DJ Mannie
Fresh
Maple Leaf Bar George Porter Jr., Chris Adkins
MRB Ben Buchbinder
St. Roch Tavern Woods on Fire, Liliana
Hudgens
Virgin Hotels Victor Campbell
SUNDAY, MAY 4
BJ’s Lounge James McClaskey
Bacchanal Noah Young, Tangiers Combo
Bayou Bar Coda, Peter Harris
Blue Nile Big Chief Monk Boudreaux
Boomtown Boomtown Brass Band
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad
Sandys
Buffa’s Pfister Sisters, Some Like it Hot!
Cafe Istanbul Nicholas Payton/Esperanza Spalding/Karriem Riggins
Carrollton Station André Bohren, Woodenhead
Chickie Wah Wah Dogs In A Pile, Wally Ingram
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
MARILYN
MANSON AT THE FILLMORE
Rock and metal star Marilyn Manson will be returning to New Orleans for his 2025 North American spring tour. His band of the same name is known for many hits, including “The Dope Show” and “Mobscene.”
Wednesday, May 21, 7 p.m., $65.45 to $326.06, livenation.com
TUESDAY, MAY 6
Bacchanal Pete Olynciw
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Tony Dagradi
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Dos Jefes Tom Hook
Gasa Gasa Sparta, Moondough
Hideout Bar Kid Merv
New Orleans Jazz Museum Marina Albero
Rabbit Hole Rebirth
Salon Salon Silver Lining Serenaders
Smoothie King Center Shinedown
Spotted Cat Smoking Time Jazz
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7
Bacchanal Jesse Morrow
Buffa’s James McClasky
Cafe Istanbul Sariyah Idan
Café Degas Double Whisky
MUSIC CALENDAR
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Gasa Gasa Young Bucks Jazz Orchestra
Hotel Monteleone James Martin
Lafayette Square Bon Bon Vivant
Saturn Bar Kassi Valazza, Camille Wind
Weatherford
Spotted Cat Shotgun Jazz Band
THURSDAY, MAY 8
Bourbon O Bar Audrey & the CrawZaddies
Buffa’s Tom McDermott, Aurora Nealand
Carousel Bar Leslie Martin
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Fillmore Turnover
Joy Theater Soulja Boy
Le Bon Temps Roulé Soul Rebels
New Orleans Jazz Museum Wladigeroff Brothers Dutch Alley Johnette Downing
Orpheum Theater Brahms Symphony No. 3
Pavillion of Two Sisters City Park The Boogie Men
Saenger Theatre October London, Tamar Braxton The Press Room D’Batiste
FRIDAY, MAY 9
BK House Amethyst Starr, Lilli Lewis
Bacchanal David Sigler, Willie Green
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys
Buffa’s Adam Rogers
Carrollton Station Amis du Teche, Bayou Juju
Celebration Hall Sporty’s Brass Band
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
House of Blues Wage War
Le Bon Temps Roulé CLOUDSAVE
MRB Anna Laura Quinn
Rock n Bowl The Rouge Krewe No Dice Mickey Avalon
Smoothie King Center Master P, 50 Cent
Spotted Cat Paradise Jazz, Vegas Cola
SATURDAY, MAY 10
Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell
Bacchanal Amari Ansari, Juan Tigre
Buffa’s Dr. Sick
Carrollton Station Valerie Sassyfras
Causeway Big Al, Heavyweights
Compass Point Events Jon Sheckler
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Fountain Lounge Leslie Martin
Gasa Gasa Sub-division
Madame Vic’s Angie Bachemin, Gingerbread the Original
Madisonville Ball Park Rhythm Brothers, Dwayne Dopsie
Rock n Bowl Sugar Shaker
Saenger Theatre Sierra Ferrell
Spotted Cat Shake’em Up Jazz Band
Tipsy Trumpet Kid Merv
SUNDAY, MAY 11
Bacchanal Noah Young, Tangiers Combo
Blue Nile Kayla Jasmine
Bombay Club T Marie, Bayou Juju
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad
Sandys
Buffa’s Some Like it Hot!
Café Beignet on Decatur Central Standard
Time
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Old Point Bar Jon Sheckler Organ Trio!
The Broadside T-Marie, Bayou Juju
The Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band
MONDAY, MAY 12
Allways Lounge Betsy Propane’s Smokeshow
Bacchanal Byron Asher
Buffa’s David Doucet
Capulet Sofia Mock
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Da Jump Off Big 6 Brass Band
TUESDAY, MAY 13
Bacchanal Satin Strings
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Fillmore Killswitch Engage
Hideout Bar Kid Merv
New Orleans Jazz Museum Jonathan Bloom
Siberia Rosegarden Funeral Party, Summore
Spotted Cat Smoking Time Jazz
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14
Bacchanal Jesse Morrow
Buffa’s Mark Carroll
Café Degas Double Whisky
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Hotel Monteleone James Martin
House of Blues Of Mice & Men
Joy Theater Smino
Siberia Korine, Johnny Dynamite
Spotted Cat Shotgun Jazz Band
THURSDAY, MAY 15
Bacchanal Pete Olynciw
Bourbon O Bar Audrey, The CrawZaddies
Buffa’s Tom McDermott, Tim Laughlin
Cafe Istanbul Conjunto Tierra Linda, Sonido
Bestial
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Gasa Gasa DAIISTAR
Le Bon Temps Roulé Soul Rebels
No Dice Keep Flying, Save Ferris
Orpheum Theater Leon Bridges
The Broadside Simple Tix
The Press Room D’Batiste
FRIDAY, MAY 16
Bacchanal David Sigler, Willie Green
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad
Sandys
Buffa’s Adam Rogers
Carrollton Station Whit It, Sweet Magnolia
Celebration Hall Sporty’s Brass Band
Chickie Wah Wah Jenn Howard
Civic Theatre The Damned
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
House of Blues Jon B.
Jefferson Performing Arts Center The Black Jacket Symphony
Le Bon Temps Roulé Caleb Tokarska
Orpheum Theater Leon Bridges
Republic NOLA bàwldy, Evalution
Rock n Bowl The Topcats
Santos Bar Whitemoth, Silent Solace
Seawitch Silver Lining Serenaders
Spotted Cat James Martin, Paradise Jazz Band
Tipitina’s George Porter Jr., Runnin’ Pardners
SATURDAY, MAY 17
Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell
Bacchanal Amari Ansari, Miles Berry
Buffa’s Natasha Sanchez, Gardenia Moon
Chickie Wah Wah Layla Musselwhite
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Empire Raulín Rodríguez
Generations Hall Jon Sheckler
Joy Theater Buckethead
Margaret Place OTR, Nils Hoffmann
Rock n Bowl Nashville South
Roosevelt Hotel Leslie Martin
Santos Bar Whitemoth, Silent Solace
Spotted Cat Panorama Jazz Band, Twerk Thomson
The National WWII Museum Victory Swing Orchestra
Tipitina’s Tchoup Making Sense
SUNDAY, MAY 18
Bacchanal Noah Young, Tangiers Combo
Bayou St John John Papa Gros, Big Freedia
Blue Nile Kayla Jasmine, the Experience
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys
Chickie
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
D.B.A. New Orleans Teitel, Fribush organ Quartet
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Faux Meaux NOLA Marsh Fire
House of Blues Durand Bernarr
Rock n Bowl Bucktown Allstars
Sea Cave Nola Die Young
Spotted Cat James Martin, Paradise Jazz
Band
Buffa’s Some Like it Hot!, Meryl Zimmerman Quartet
Café Beignet on Decatur
Central Standard Time
Crescent City Brewhouse
New Orleans Streetbeat
House of Blues Red Jumpsuit
Apparatus
Joy Theater The Bar-Kays, The Rumble
St Louis Cathedral Shades of Praise
The Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band
Tipitina’s Fais Do-Do, Bruce Daigrepont
MONDAY, MAY 19
Allways Lounge Betsy
Propane’s Smokeshow
Apple Barrel Mark Appleford
Buffa’s David Doucet
Crescent City Brewhouse
New Orleans Streetbeat
The Den Shady Oaks
The Howlin Wolf Shady Oaks, Atom Cat
TUESDAY, MAY 20
Crescent City Brewhouse
New Orleans Streetbeat
Hideout Bar Kid Merv
No Dice Foxy Shazam
Siberia PeelingFlesh
Spotted Cat Smoking Time
Jazz
The Howlin Wolf Comedy Beast
WEDNESDAY, MAY 21
Bacchanal Jesse Morrow
Buffa’s Joe Krown
Café Degas Double Whisky
Chickie Wah Wah Jon Cleary
The Howlin Wolf Byron Daniel, Five Dead Dogs
SATURDAY, MAY 24
Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell
Bacchanal Amari Ansari, Miles Berry
Buffa’s Dr. Sick
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Fillmore Marilyn Manson
Hotel Monteleone James Martin
Hotel Peter and Paul Everyone Sing!
House of Blues Testament
Santos Bar Suckling
Siberia Saidan
Spotted Cat Shotgun Jazz Band
THURSDAY, MAY 22
21st Amendment Bon Bon Vivant
Bacchanal Boma Bango
Bourbon O Bar Audrey, The CrawZaddies
Buffa’s Tom McDermott, Aurora Nealand
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Fillmore SiR
House of Blues The Wrecks
Le Bon Temps Roulé Soul Rebels
The Press Room D’Batiste
FRIDAY, MAY 23
Allways Lounge Angie Z
Bacchanal David Sigler, Willie Green
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad
Sandys
Buffa’s Adam Rogers
Celebration Hall Sporty’s Brass Band
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Dew Drop Inn Sam Warren
Il Mercato Jon Sheckler
Le Bon Temps Roulé Poisson Rouge
Poor Boys Bar Jvnebvg
Rock n Bowl Rockin Dopsie Jr.
Roosevelt Hotel Leslie Martin
Saenger Theatre Frankie Valli
Spotted Cat Shake’em Up Jazz Band
Tipitina’s The Crane Wives
Tipsy Trumpet Kid Merv, All That Jazz
SUNDAY, MAY 25
BJ’s Lounge Bubbles Brown
Bacchanal Noah Young, Tangiers Combo
Blue Nile Kayla Jasmine
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad
Sandys
Buffa’s Some Like it Hot!
Café Beignet on Decatur Central Standard
Time
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Dew Drop Inn Sam Warren
Paradigm Gardens Mikayla Braun
Pour House Saloon Dave Jordan
The Broadside Simple Tix
The Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band
Wah Wah Jason Ricci, The Bad Kind
LAKESIDE2RIVERSIDE
DAZE BETWEEN FEST
April 29 & 30 | dazebetweennola.com
Daze Between Fest will keep the good times rolling over the course of two days at the Mahalia Jackson Theater between Jazz Fest weekends. For the third year in a row, the city will have one day of rest before Daze Between continues the festivities—on Tuesday and Wednesday— celebrating the vibrant city of New Orleans. Each day will have local vendors, food trucks, community art, and more to enjoy. There will be stage performances by Umphrey’s McGee, moe., GeoLeo, Lespecial, and many more. General admission tickets begin at $67.50 for one day and are $130 for both days.
George Porter, Jr.
MID-CITY BAYOU BOOGALOO
May 16-18 | thebayouboogaloo.com
Bayou Boogaloo will be amping up the volume along Bayou St. John for three days this May in Mid-City. Each day will have food, community art, music, and canoeing to enjoy—regardless of the weather. If you just want to dance, then you’ll be delighted by many wonderful performances including Big Freedia’s Gospel Revival, GLBL WRMNG, Jelly Joseph, and many more. There will also be a variety stage featuring crawfish eating contests, comedy sets, and more. Weekend passes begin at $39.50 for reentry into the festival all-weekend. No tickets are required for children under the age of 12.
CINCO DE MAYO FEST
May 5 | cincodemayofest.com
The ninth annual Cinco de Mayo Fest will be taking place on May 5 from 4 p.m. until the festivities end at Lafreniere Park in Metairie. Everyone is invited to celebrate this exciting fest with cultural foods, music, and more. Festival goers will have the option to participate in bull riding, taco eating competitions, and vibe to DJ Mannie Fresh, Partners N Crime, La Tran K, and more. All proceeds for this event will go to Aligned Foundation, which works to provide communities equal access to holistic wellness and education. Early bird GA tickets are $25, while limited VIP tickets are $75.
TWERK SOMETHIN’
Meet the next generation of New Orleans bounce music
artists
By Cynthea Corfah
New Orleans bounce music is taking the world by storm.
While it may have started as an underground music style popular in local clubs and neighborhoods, New Orleans bounce is becoming a widely recognized music genre across the globe. Bounce icons including DJ Jubilee, Magnolia Shorty, PartnersN-Crime, Big Freedia, and HaSizzle paved the way for upand-coming New Orleans bounce artists, displaying the art of creating twerk music you can feel.
In today’s social media-centric world, New Orleans bounce has reached new audiences with the help of trending bounce audios and local creators with large followings. As the bounce scene continues to grow, so does the amount of emerging artists producing bounce bangers. Six local music artists on the rise are helping to bounce New Orleans onto the map.
504ICYGRL
This music artist is small in stature but has a huge stage and vocal presence. Her indistinguishable voice pierces through the speakers and commands the listener’s ear. She is more than a hit maker. From her creative rump-shaking music videos to her bold street marketing, there is no doubt she is serious about taking her music career to the next level. In traditional New Orleans bounce fashion, her songs feature explicit lyrics paired with rich and layered bounce beats designed to make your body move. Listen to her when you need to hype yourself up or want a quick confidence boost. Must listen-to songs: “Where He At,” “Neck Remix,” and “Throw Me Something Big.”
DINO BTW
If you’re born and raised in New Orleans, Dino BTW sounds like home. Her authentic local voice embodies second line Sundays, Mardi Gras day at the Zulu parade, and really any opportunity to bounce, shake, and twerk in the city. Her mature lyrics, repetitive hooks, and boisterous sound are everything new age bounce music is about: dancing, freedom of expression, and all things New Orleans. It’s the type of music you hear blaring from a party bus with women dancing backside-up out the windows—if you know, you know. Some stand-out samples featured in Dino BTW’s catalogue are Lumidee’s “Never Leave You,” T.I.’s “Memories Back Then,” and “Mesmerize” by Ja Rule and featuring Ashanti. Must listen-to songs: “Baby Daddy,” “Uh Oh,” and “7th Ward.”
ELLA ON DA MIC
Some voices are quickly recognizable and stick with you after only a few listens. Ella on Da Mic is one of those artists. Showcasing a powerful, energetic, and sharp delivery, Ella on Da Mic means what she says. Like some of her peers, her memorable hooks and bars are dominating the trending social media audios and are the soundtrack to a growing number of dance videos. Many of her songs talk about romantic relationships, haters, and uncensored activities. This local artist is big on collaboration. She has worked with New Orleans performers such as 504icygrl, Joshua Starkman, and Sissy Nobby. Must listen-to songs: “Make Way,” “Habits,” and “Yum Yum.”
QWEEN QWEEZY
This fiery and unapologetic female rapper is kicking the door down of new-age New Orleans bounce music. As the daughter of Ms. Tee, the first woman signed to Young Money Cash Money, Qween Qweezy has been surrounded by music her entire life. Initially hesitant to dive into bounce music, Qweezy leaned into her New Orleans roots and released Bounce Fah Me in 2024. The eight-track album, full of unforgettable samples from 2000s R&B hits, showcases a collection of dance anthems, provocative lyrics, and women empowerment jams that could only be produced in the Big Easy.
Must listen-to songs: “Never ever ever,” “PONY,” and “Rollin.”
SUBTWEET SHAWN
If you’re on the New Orleans TikTok algorithm, then you’ve probably seen countless videos of dancers tripping out to Subtweet Shawn. Gaining millions of views on TikTok and Instagram, this music artist and content creator is taking New Orleans bounce to new heights. His call-andresponse lyrics and homegrown local sound effortlessly transport listeners to the streets of the Crescent City. You know the local artist is on the mic when you hear his signature “all right.” New Orleans bounce is known for its innovative sampling, and Subtweet Shawn doesn’t fall short in that arena. His song “Baby” puts a bounce spin on the early 2000s song “Shawty” by Plies.
Must listen-to songs: “ITS LIKE RAIN,” “Baby,” and “21 Seconds.”
T99ZY
We can’t talk about tripping out without talking about T99zy. The New Orleans artist’s 2024 single “Trip Out” has more than one million streams and around 200,000 TikTok videos using the trending audio. Music artists including Chance the Rapper,
GloRilla, Fredo Bang, and Moneybagg Yo have been filmed doing the popular New Orleans dance, and it continues to grow in fame. While this may be his first song to become a bounce phenomenon, T99zy has made multiple recognizable hits. His other 2024 singles “Enemy” and “Rock Yo Hips” are continuously played at local parties and events. “Enemy” was even featured on local DJ Legatron Prime’s Superbowl LIX HipHop Dance Party (DJ Mix) for Apple Music this year. Must listen-to songs: “Trip Out,” “Enemy,” and “Rock Yo Hips.”
OTHER EMERGING AND ESTABLISHED BOUNCE ARTISTS TO LISTEN TO:
BJ So Cole
Bog Vonnie OnlyHeaven Reup Reedy Shardaysa Jones SupahBadd Treety VickeeLo
Two
n ewo rleans originals.
the rhythm, the soul, the flavor — no booze required.
PLAY BY HERE
The Benefits of Learning to Play an Instrument—Especially in NOLA
By Emily Hingle
The Center for Music and Medicine’s Director Alexander Pantelyat, M.D., was quoted, “Listening to music activates as many, if not more, parts of the brain than any human activity—which makes it complex to study.”
Music is medicine. There’s plenty of research about it.
Understanding the benefits of music at a neurological level, Johns Hopkins Medicine created the Center for Music and Medicine to explore the use of music and rhythm-based therapies for a number of debilitating disorders.
While listening to music is therapeutic, playing an instrument and singing can be even more beneficial. Through research at the Center for Music and Medicine, it was noted that 13 older adults who started piano lessons saw improvements in their “attention, memory, and problem-solving abilities, along with their moods and quality of life.”
In this musical city, there are many options for instrument lessons for students as young as 4 and as old as 100 (or older).
Students as young as 4 years old and as mature as 80 seek lessons at New Orleans Guitar Studio on Oak Street. “What I focus on here is a comprehensive approach to the guitar. Everything we do starts from technique. We’re going to talk about how to sit with the instrument and how to hold the instrument. How do we utilize the left hand? How do we utilize the right hand? That’s my curriculum, and I don’t change it up. My 40-year-old student is going to learn the same thing the first week that my 7-year-old student is going to learn,” explained Owner/Instructor Taylor Counce.
Being a fourth-generation educator and a lifetime music education student, Counce understands the intersections of learning an instrument, feeling pressured to perform, and genuine enthusiasm for music. His holistic lessons are designed to increase focus and appreciation for budding musicians. “I think the perception of me would be very rigid or strict about how to play the instrument, but it’s so low pressure here. The idea is, at least with the young ones, I’m getting them to associate focus with play and fun. The adults are just as unfocused as the middle schoolers. Some of them just want to come and hang out for an hour. I’m fine with that. But I’m going to load you down with stuff during the week.”
Taking an entirely different approach, School of Rock uses performance-based lessons to get students motivated to learn. Owner CR Gruver, a member of the New Orleans Suspects, explained, “I’m a musician myself. I come from a classicallytrained piano playing background. When I found out about this concept of performance-based music lessons, I just absolutely fell in love with the idea. It gives these kids an opportunity to learn not just an instrument but to be with each other and rehearse. It builds self confidence, it builds leadership skills—all these things
you get in sports programs that are life lessons that can be translated to the rest of your life.”
School of Rock has over 400 locations worldwide, each with live concerts scheduled regularly. Students of all ages are initially given lessons on their instrument of choice, then assigned to groups tasked with learning and performing songs for an upcoming concert. “We start at 4 years old, and we go all the way to 100. For about 15 weeks or so, we work on songs. At the end of every season, we do a show. We had a drum student in his 70s. He was terrified of the performance aspect. He kept saying he couldn’t do it, but he loved playing in the band. We did the show at the Maple Leaf, and he did the show and survived it. I’ll never forget the look on his face after the show.”
While rehearsing their assigned songs at school and at home, students are educated on theory and reading music via the Method app; however, the interaction with bandmates is invaluable, much like the group dynamic of team sports. “You need to learn to play with other people, to listen, and be respectful. That’s what I really have seen in the performance model—the confidence that’s built. It instills in them the ability to follow instruction and to work with others. We’re making musicians, but we’re also helping make better people,” Gruver said.
People of all ages and skill levels will benefit from learning to play an instrument regardless of what they intend to accomplish by taking lessons. “I just want to encourage music,” noted Gruver. “I don’t care if you’re doing it here or somewhere else. We need more musicians in the world. My two daughters go to the Octave School of Music for classical music. Even Lafargue Pianos across the street—those guys are great.”
Counce emphasized that the “intrinsic value of music” is indispensable. He said, “Parents want to hear that your kids will score in the top 10 percentile of any testing group they’re put in because they’re learning pattern recognition, analysis, and exercising base algebra when they’re reading sheet music, but that shouldn’t be the reason. The reason should be that it supports your emotional health. It’s therapeutic. It can pull you out of some of the darkest periods of your life. Music is intrinsically valuable in and of itself in the same way that math, science, and literature are.”
Those looking to learn can also check out Spreading the Music, NOLA School of Music, and Metaire Music Academy for more class styles and instrument options. There’s no better time to start learning to play music.
GULF OF What's in a name?
By Joel Mandina
WHAT’S IN A NAME?
While some view this as President Trump declaring his love of both golf and Gulf, as with everything in modern politics, this unabashedly pro-American move also highlights AmericanMexican relations during a time of immigration strife, cartel turmoil, environmental upheaval, and the ongoing climate change debate.
The Gulf is the ninth largest body of water on earth. According to the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration, 50% of America’s petroleum and natural gas capacity is located along the Gulf, while the Environmental Defense Fund cites that the area supplies 40% of U.S. seafood.
THE MORE THINGS CHANGE
Economics aside, the environment of southeast Louisiana continues to struggle with coastal erosion, wildlife trauma, oil drilling, and subsequent spills, with each stimulating sometimes aggressive but necessary dialogue about courses of action. According to ABC News, “a football field of wetlands vanishes into open water every 100 minutes.”
Dylan Becnel, a featured character on both Discovery Channel’s Deadliest Catch, as well as another show on the network VooDoo Crew, said, “While oil and gas might be considered ‘hard resources,’ the Gulf of America provides a plethora of sport, entertainment, and leisure to locals, and visitors alike with offshore fishing being the most common.”
OutDoorTV, the program’s production company, described VooDoo Crew as follows: “The series follows the day-to-day operations of the VooDoo Charters company that runs out of Venice, Louisiana. In the season debut, cameras follow the crew from sunrise to sunset while chronicling the everyday lives of the captains, deckhands, staffers, and clients that board the boats at dawn in hope of returning later in the day with a giant fish. There is nothing scripted and ‘fishy’ about the stories that viewers will see in this real-life snapshot of the high-stakes charter fishing world.”
While shows like VooDoo Crew celebrate the democratization that open waters bring to the sport, deep sea fishing fans of the celebrity ilk, including Johnny Depp, Zach Efron, Cameron Diaz, Clint Eastwood, Matthew McConaughey, and Kevin Costner, have expressed a passion for fighting “The Big Fish,” which can take hours. Now this would be some good TV.
On its website, Plaquemines Parish Tourism also provides other types of location-based activities. Research of said activities shows everything from kayak fishing, sharking, bow fishing, frogging, tours, and even the harvesting of alligator eggs.
ONE FISH, TWO FISH, RED FISH, BLUE FISH
While other states along the Gulf Coast, which also include Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, enjoy blue/green water and white sand-filled beaches, Louisiana is, as in most ways, a tad different.
The Mississippi River, which begins as a trickle from Canada, empties itself into the
AMEXICO
When the President of the United States recently issued an executive order to officially change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, the polarized global response revealed the passion many hold for its serene and calming—albeit strategically important—warm waters.
Mississippi River Basin, which merges sediment like the ancient flooding of the Nile River Valley with swampland most similar to the Florida Everglades. The water is not crystal blue but brackish brown, and the beloved white sands of the “Redneck Riviera” have been replaced by swampland and moss-covered trees, and, of course, the local fauna.
Ralph Brennan, a member of the famed “first family of restaurants,” told the Food Network after Hurricane Katrina and leading up to the BP Oil Spill that southeast Louisiana’s valuable region “has a perception problem.” His RBRGreen is his group’s sustainable program that focus on reducing waste, protecting wildlife, stimulating industry, and sourcing local ingredients, according to their website neworleans-food.com.
The website also states, “RBRG restaurants have invested over $2,000,000 to enable meaningful work of 1,100-profit organizations via 3,500 charitable gifts.”
SODIUM AND SEA CREATURES
Another unique trait of the Louisiana Gulf Coast is its intersection of salt and fresh water, with the salted gulf waters moving further and further north and upriver, disturbing Plaquemines Parish’s famous citrus crop and even contaminating drinking water. This unique meta-climate once again raises economic and environmental concerns for the keeper of America’s most valuable resources.
Of course, we’re still Louisianans—kings and queens of the Land of Festivals, and Belle Chasse’s most famous one turns its most famous fruit into a combination of food, fun, family, and fruit-based play. Besides the regular festival trinity of music, art, and food, the Plaquemines Parish Fair and Orange Festival integrates a sense of community competition amongst its offerings. These nontraditional games include the following, according to New Orleans Magazine, kumquat stuffing, orange eating, orange peeling, duck calling, shrimp deheading, catfish skinning, and oyster shucking.
The festival’s website, plaqueminesparishseafood.com, states, “The Plaquemines Parish Seafood Festival celebrates the rich heritage of the people of Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana. Visitors will enjoy great local seafood and other unique, local food specialties. The festival offers continuous live music from popular local bands and traditional swamp pop music.”
“If Louisiana is a Sportsmen’s Paradise, then the Miss River is the main artery flowing to its heart, the Gulf,” said Jeffrey Rhodes, a charter boat captain with locations in Venice, LA and Panama City Beach, FL. He continued, “Luckily, I get to take in the offerings of this very unique experience across the region.”
Perhaps the Gulf is just a nexus of sorts, he mused. The river meets gulf, brown meets blue, salt meets fresh, America meets Mexico. And let’s not forget—from restauranteurs to reality TV and fishermen to farmers—old meets new.
Some would explain Plaquemines Parish as “the last McDonald’s before you hit the end of the world.”
“Or the beginning,” concluded Becnel.
Mother’s Day Mother’s Day Mother’s Day
2 POYDRAS ST NEW ORLEANS LA 70130
GONE SÀI GÒN
Honoring Vietnamese Culture in New Orleans
By Amy Kirk Duvoisin
From the fall of Saigon 50 years ago to the rise of the bánh mì, Vietnamese culture in New Orleans is honored during Asian American Month.
On April 30, 1975, the South Vietnamese capital of Saigon fell to the North Vietnamese Army, bringing an end to the Vietnam War. Between the years of 1975-1978, over 200,000 Vietnamese immigrated to the United States, many of them airlifted and transported to refugee centers throughout the U.S.
After a 1975 visit to the refugee camp in Fort Chaffe, Arkansas, Archbishop of New Orleans Philip Hannan worked with the United States Catholic Conference and Catholic Charities of New Orleans to relocate thousands of refugees to New Orleans.
Vietnamese Americans are currently the largest immigrant group in Louisiana, numbering approximately 33,000 statewide as of 2024, with about half that number living in the New Orleans metro tri-parish area.
Cyndi Nguyen, the first Asian American to serve on the New Orleans City Council (2018-2022 District E) and now a consultant for VIET (vietno.org, Vietnamese Initiatives in Economic Training), arrived with her family at the Arkansas refugee center in 1975. They first moved to Iowa but relocated to New Orleans after just three months. “My dad was a fisherman, and we were freezing in Iowa.”
While Louisiana may not have the largest Vietnamese immigrant population in the U.S., it is perhaps the most concentrated. “In New Orleans East, we created a village,” Nguyen noted. “You could walk to church, school, and the market. This helped people survive, especially those who first arrived.”
The community in New Orleans East is still strong but not quite like when Nguyen was growing up. “As a kid, I would hang out at the Vietnamese market all the time. Now you just don’t see that.” However, she said, “Mary Queen of Vietnam Church remains our anchor.” As the first Vietnamese Catholic parish established in the United States in 1983, it is best known for its annual Tết Festival and serves as a hub for the
entire community.
“Over 80% of the local Vietnamese population is Catholic and brought with them unique ways of practicing their faith, which had developed over centuries in Vietnam. New Orleans is one of the few places where these Catholic rituals are still alive,” said Mark Cave, senior historian at the Historic New Orleans Collection and curator of Making It Home: From Vietnam to New Orleans, currently on view at the HNOC until October 5, 2025. “Many of those we interviewed for this exhibit grew up in small Catholic villages in North Vietnam and fled south when the country was partitioned in 1954. They fled again after the Fall of Saigon in 1975 and often lived [in] several places before reuniting with family in New Orleans.”
Although Vietnamese Americans make up slightly less than 3% of the local population, their cuisine plays a vital part in our culinary landscape. While it is difficult to get a firm statistic on the number of currently operating Vietnamese restaurants, tripout.online gave a headcount of 185 in 2020.
One of the best known is Dong Phuong, a Vietnamese restaurant and bakery that opened in 1982, provides much of the city’s po-boy breads and is locally and nationally renowned for its king cakes. From Phở Tàu Bay downtown (est. 1981) and Nine Roses Café in Gretna (est. 1992) to newer restaurants including Lilly’s Café on Magazine Street (2012) and Mint on Freret Street (2014), experiencing local New Orleans food means experiencing local Vietnamese fare.
Vietnamese culinary contributions may be the most visible, but this anniversary year offers unique opportunities for experiencing more Vietnamese American voices, perspectives, and stories.
The 2025 One Book One New Orleans selection is a novel by local author E.M. Tran. “Daughters of the New Year offers an unforgettable cast of characters and calls readers to examine the art of storytelling within their own families and communities,” said Dr. Megan Holt, OBONO’s executive
director. “It also calls on readers to more fully explore the ways in which the Vietnamese community has shaped New Orleans as we know it today.”
The Ogden Museum of Southern Art has Hoa Tay (Flower Hands) on display through September 21, 2025, featuring emerging and established Vietnamese American artists working throughout the American South.
“It’s so critical to tell our story and how we have contributed to the United States,” said Cyndi Nguyen, who is working with local artist and filmmaker Sarah Bynum on a musical to be performed in Washington, D.C., in September 2025, which includes both her immigration story and Bynum’s. Bynum was airlifted from South Vietnam in 1973 as part of Operation Babylift, then adopted and raised in New Orleans. Her film Where We Stand, released in 2024, is about the search for her biological parents, an African American father and a Vietnamese mother.
According to local author E.M.Tran, “I do think the Vietnamese communities in New Orleans are different today, mostly because those communities were set up and populated by people who are aging and passing away. But I think it’s inaccurate to say that the fading away of that kind of community means that the type of community we’re building in its place as a second or third generation isn’t a ‘strong Vietnamese community.’ It’s just different. Maybe it’s not geographically or physically located in a neighborhood, but there are still many ways we show up for each other and build as a community, including through art, writing, film, gardening, activism, or even as a Mardi Gras krewe. We’re organizing in different ways because the world we live in is much different, too.”
THE CANINE REDEMPTION
Pets in Prison Rehabilitating Lives—Starting With Their Own.
By Emily Hingle
Outside
of mainstream society, some animals are getting a second chance at life from behind prison walls—and so are their inmate trainers.
Louisiana’s public animal shelters and nonprofit shelters are overwhelmed and have been at crisis levels for years. The situation is dire for many dogs and cats who are euthanized to make room for more animals coming in every day. While mass transportation programs to northern states with fewer animals in shelters (thanks to robust spay/ neuter programs) are able to save some lives, too many adoptable animals are sentenced to an undeserved death.
Since 2005, Dixon Correction Institute, a medium security state prison in Jackson, Louisiana, has taken in cats and dogs that have nowhere else to call home. The Pen Pals shelter has provided a safe haven for animals and has improved the lives of inmates trained to care for them. The shelter began in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Katrina as pets were left behind by evacuating citizens. People who rounded up these abandoned animals needed somewhere to take them, so a makeshift shelter was created at Dixon Correctional. The shelter turned out to be a success for the animals and for some inmates who were allowed to tend to them. Eventually, DCI, the Humane Society of the United States, and the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine established a permanent and emergency animal shelter on the prison grounds, with the Humane Society obtaining a $600,000 grant for construction of the facility.
PEN PALS
Pen Pals, Inc., Dog and Cat Shelter and Adoption Center is a beacon for hope for the animals saved and for the inmates. The program not only provides much needed shelter for animals in Louisiana, but it helps the inmate workers learn skills that can be used after reintegrating into society and promotes their rehabilitation.
Trained dogs are more likely to be adopted. From the Big House to Your House by Doggone Express is an organization dedicated to training inmates to train dogs in order to get them adopted out. The program’s founder and CEO, William Barse, was inspired by the Pathways to Hope program. “I was helping several rescues back in 2009, and people would say that they would love to have a dog, but they couldn’t afford to have it trained,” he relayed. “I found a Dominican nun, Sister Pauline Quinn, who had inmate dog training programs, and I was able to go visit them. I worked with my executive vice president, who happened to be an attorney/judge who owned a pet store, and we got a meeting with Secretary LeBlanc in charge of safety with the Department of Corrections, and we told him this is what we wanted to do. We launched it on May 1 of the following year.”
FROM THE BIG HOUSE TO YOUR HOUSE
Just over a decade later, From the Big House to Your House has saved more than 770 dogs from kill shelters in Louisiana, trained them at Rayburn Correctional and the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women, and placed them in loving homes.
C.A.T.S. TRAIN DOGS
Dogs are selected from kill shelters or from rescue organizations that pull dogs from kill shelters, and they are matched with the programs trained Canine Assessment Training Staff.
“I’m the only person on the planet that has C.A.T.S. training dogs in prisons,” Barse laughingly said. “The C.A.T.S. are training the dogs in name recognition, ‘recall,’ ‘sit,’ ‘stay,’ ‘leave it,’ ‘drop it,’ and ‘place,’ where they send the dog to a specific area and [it] lays down until it’s given a release command. The dogs stay in a kennel under the cots of our trainers. That’s quite an honor to be in the program, and we’ve had quite a few people who got out of prison when their time was up, and two became dog trainers. We have no recidivism. No one who has been in our program who got paroled or let out has gone back to prison.”
Some dogs who excel at basic obedience will go on to receive advanced training for skills such as emotional support or assistance with tasks. “There’s more advanced training, which includes ‘cover,’ ‘block,’ and ‘distress response,’ which, in the event the owner has an emotional situation, the dog will crawl up on the owner and lick them under the chin until they come back to the present,” he said. “We also have nightsituation training where if an owner is having nightmares, the dog will wake up the owner. We can train them more advanced to pick up items, retrieve items by name, and assist with people who may be confined to a wheelchair.”
A PRISONER'S BEST FRIEND
Barse emphasized that they can’t train enough dogs to meet the demand he receives for them, and there’s a waiting list for these prison-trained dogs. Due to the program’s success for shelter animals, inmates, and the citizens receiving dogs, it will expand to more institutions. “We’re getting ready to expand our prison training programs to Elayn Hunt Correctional Center in St. Gabriel and Allen Correctional Center in Kinder,” Barse acknowledged. “We’re hoping to be able to introduce some programs at two jail facilities. I’m a deputy with the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Department, and I’m working with the director of corrections at the jail to have some of those inmates work at two of the shelters up here where they can also learn, hopefully, conflict resolution, anger management, and responsibility.” Prison pet programs are beneficial to all parties involved, and these furry friends would love to come home to you. As Barse put it, “We convert inmates from tax users to tax payers. Overall, everyone wins. There’s no way that this cannot help the community.”
LET THE GOOD MOMS ROLL
New Orleans Mother’s Day Experiences
By Brooke Adams
Ditch the gifts, forget the bouquet—give mom New Orleans adventures to make memories with her, instead.
Many of us associate our mothers with all things good: love, kindness, selflessness, and comfort. With such outstanding attributes, it can sometimes feel hard to give her a gift that shows your appreciation.
Stores line their shelves with trinkets and treats to gift mothers each year. But, how do you choose? While flowers are never a bad idea, consider giving her what she really wants—time with you. Whether your mom loves food, music, or relaxation, the Big Easy has the perfect adventure waiting for her that you both can share.
TAKE A MISSISSIPPI RIVER CRUISE
There’s something magical about drifting down the Mississippi River while listening to the soothing sounds of jazz. A river cruise is a fantastic way to soak in the beauty of New Orleans from the water. The paddlewheeler Creole Queen offers a special Mother’s Day Sip & Sail Sunset River Cruise, featuring live jazz, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking sunset views. It’s a classy and memorable way to celebrate.
STROLL THROUGH THE NEW
ORLEANS BOTANICAL GARDEN IN CITY PARK
If your mom loves nature, a trip to the New Orleans Botanical Garden in City Park is a wonderful way to spend the day. Open year-round, the 10-acre grounds contain more than 2,000 varieties of plants from around the world. Surrounded by colorful flowers, lush greenery, and peaceful pathways, it’s the perfect setting for quality time together. The garden features several themed areas, such as the Rose Garden and the Butterfly Walk, making it a lovely and serene Mother’s Day outing. Make the memories last by snapping some selfies with your mom in one of the most picturesque places in town.
LEARN
TO COOK
LIKE A LOCAL IN THE MARIGNY
Mark Twain once said, “New Orleans food is as delicious as the less criminal forms of sin.” What better way to bond with your mom than over food that has inspired generations of artists, writers, and creatives? Treat her to a hands-on cooking class where you can both learn to prepare classic Creole and Cajun dishes. Langlois Culinary Crossroads offers immersive cooking experiences where you’ll chop, stir, and taste your way through some of New Orleans’ most iconic flavors. Plus, you get to enjoy your delicious creations at the end.
INDULGE IN A JAZZ BRUNCH
Brunch is a Mother’s Day staple, and, especially in New Orleans, it’s even better with live jazz. Many restaurants offer a special Mother’s Day jazz brunch, serving up delicious food with a side of soulful music. If your mom would prefer to stay home, you don’t have to limit yourself to brunch on Mother’s Day. Jazz brunches are easy to find year-round, but extravagant jazz brunches at legacy restaurants are something extra special. These culinary icons are often over a century old, still in their original locations, serve authentic Creole cuisine, and require a dress code. Some of the most popular include Commander’s Palace, Antoine’s, the Court of Two Sisters, Arnaud’s, and Broussard’s.
ENJOY A SPA DAY TOGETHER IN MID-CITY
Give your mom the gift of relaxation with a luxurious spa day. Spend a few hours unwinding together in a serene environment—because moms deserve to be pampered. Many spas in New Orleans, such as Woodhouse Spa on Canal Street, offer special Mother’s Day packages that include massages, facials, and other rejuvenating treatments. Whether you choose a high-end spa or a charming boutique spa, the experience will leave both of you feeling refreshed and cherished.
GET CREATIVE WITH AN ART CLASS IN THE BYWATER
If your mom enjoys expressing herself artistically, consider signing up for a painting or pottery class. Several local studios offer fun, laid-back classes where you can create a masterpiece together. The London Clayworks New Orleans has a beautiful open studio in the Bywater, and classes are offered at their Gentilly location. Whether it’s a sip-and-paint session or a pottery workshop, it’s a unique way to bond and take home a special keepsake.
GO ON A WINE TASTING ADVENTURE UPTOWN
For moms who appreciate a good glass of wine, a winetasting experience is a great way to celebrate. New Orleans has several fantastic wine bars and tasting rooms where you can sip and savor a variety of wines. Some venues even host special Mother’s Day events, pairing wines with cheeses and small bites. There is no shortage of places to visit along your own personal wine tour, but if you are interested in a more curated experience, Sorrenteaux offers charcuterie workshops to learn how to assemble the most delicious and beautiful boards.
EXPLORE ON A GARDEN DISTRICT WALKING TOUR
Take a leisurely stroll through one of New Orleans’ most picturesque neighborhoods. The Garden District is known for its historic mansions, beautiful oak-lined streets, and charming boutiques. A guided walking tour can give you insight into the area’s rich history, or you can simply wander at your own pace, stopping at cute cafés and shops along the way.
GO KAYAKING ON BAYOU ST. JOHN
If your mom is up for an adventure, a swamp tour could be the perfect Mother’s Day activity. Glide through Bayou St. John and get up close with turtles, birds, and other wildlife. It’s a thrilling experience that combines nature, history, and a little bit of excitement.
TREAT HER TO A PRIVATE PICNIC IN AUDUBON PARK
For a simple yet meaningful Mother’s Day, plan a picnic in one of New Orleans’ scenic parks, such as Audubon Park. Pack a basket with some local treats—think po-boys, beignets, and fresh fruit—and enjoy a relaxed afternoon together. You can even bring a portable speaker to play her favorite music while you dine under the trees.
No matter what your mom enjoys, New Orleans offers plenty of unique and memorable ways to celebrate Mother’s Day. Whether you choose a scenic cruise, a lively jazz brunch, or a peaceful day at the spa, the most important thing is spending quality time together. This year, skip the traditional gifts and create lasting memories with an unforgettable experience in the Big Easy.
LIKE MOM USED TO MAKE
Notable Moms of the Restaurant Industry
By Andrew Marin
New Orleans history is overflowing with mamas who taught their children to cook. In the grand tradition of industry moms such as Leah Chase and Ella Brennan, here are some mothers who shared their food with all of us, as told by their children who’ve worked with them.
Where Y’at: Tell me your mom’s name and what she does or did?
Carling Lee Gannon, Miss Shirley’s: Shirley Lee, and she does everything: boss lady to the extreme, executive chef, menu creator, runs front of house, kitchen, dumpling maker. [She’s a] classic Asian lady—eyes on everything. The only thing she doesn’t do is scheduling.
Lisa Mosca, Mosca’s Restaurant: Mary Jo Mosca. She still works every night. She probably works more than me—definitely more. She says she’s a cook, but she’s the chef. Always in the kitchen since she married my dad in ’81. She’s been cooking since.
Ermias Alemu, Cafe Abyssinia: Ashleach Wako. She used to live in Chicago. She came down here when I opened and helped me every day those first three months. She passed away five years ago.
Quoc “Q” Trieu, Tan Dinh Vietnamese Bistro: Maria Vu, founder and chef. Everyone calls her “Mama.” Mostly backside now–she breathes down my neck. Before I even touch a saucepan, I’m doing something wrong. She knows what I’m about to do. I’m blessed to have her.
WYA: What’s your favorite food memory of your mother?
CLG: Probably making dumplings at home, when I was little—watching her make dumplings. We had the Metairie restaurant, so I had to work, obviously. But as a little kid, put on top of the dumpling table, sitting by the chopping block, that was where I helped. Growing up, I would forever help make dumplings for next day service. Sometimes I’d be sleepy at school, my teachers would ask why, and my parents didn’t know.
LM: My favorite, which still occurs, is her cooking for holidays. Christmas is our favorite holiday, so, being Italian, we always have more food than humanly possible for us to eat. Her cooking alongside my Aunt Mary, who was my dad’s sister—two Marys—they’d always cook everything. My other, I grew up at the restaurant, obviously, my dad would take me there after school. I’d sit on a little stool, and she’d test my vocab and help with homework while she was cooking.
EA: Has to be kitfo—her making it for special occasions, eating it together. We always ate it after Easter church—with the family, with everybody. My family still does that. Some people get it medium rare, but we Ethiopians always eat it raw.
QT: She’s so tough. She worked [in] a textile factory. Then, after work, I’d help her break down pork, peel carrots, prep bánh mì for [the] neighborhood market. [On] weekends, she’d wake me at 5 a.m. I was 10. We’d load up the truck and sell sandwiches for $1 or $2. My fingers were blistered from chopsticks. It was the ‘80s. We didn’t have tongs or gloves. We’ve been doing bánh mìs my whole life. Going from that with her hard work to the restaurant is great. She’ll outwork most to this day—eight days a week if she could.
WYA: What’s your favorite dish your mom makes or made?
CLG: She makes such awesome soups—classic Chinese soup. It’s not store bought. It’s that sorta herbal apothecary soup. A Chinese vegetable soup, almost like a borscht. I grew up having that in Hong Kong, as well. That’s it.
LM: That’s not on the menu at the restaurant? Of all time? There’s two. An amazing Cornish hen with wild rice. We used to have it on the menu. I’m still like, “Bring it back.” She makes that for holidays. My second favorite, which I always beg for on my birthday, is shrimp and eggplant—a casserole.
EA: Besides kitfo? Doro wat. Classic. The whole chicken, she’d cut it into 12 different parts. She’d marinate it with lemon juice then cook it with honey, garlic, ginger, and, of course, berbere. And, of course, the boiled egg in there.
QT: Egyptian spinach soup—in translation—with pork. If I met a girl and wanted to win her parents’ heart, this is what I’d cook. Not fancy, but so good. If you make this for someone—game over. They’ll love you. It’s a classic. [It has] seasonal vegetables—doesn’t matter which. She makes it so well. Whenever she does, I ask for a big batch. I break it down to little servings and freeze it. I wouldn’t introduce it to all my friends, but it’s Vietnamese comfort food.
WYA: Have you ever cooked anything that impressed your mother?
CLG: I have. I can’t even remember what it was—something simple like cornbread or corn pudding. Time stopped. Even my friends were like, “Did your mom just give you a compliment?”
LM: Yes. [It’s] a weird thing, but she loves it. I make really good white beans—so easy and random, but she always asks for it. And I know how to cook, but that’s what she wants. “Lisa, make those white beans.” I’m like, “Okay, beans. Sure.”
EA: Yeah, she liked when I cooked spaghetti. Spaghetti with ground beef and tomato in it, garlic, and jalapeño. So simple, but she loved it.
QT: Probably only my beef and vegetable misao. She likes when I stir-fry ramen with vegetables and meat. I use Mama noodles. Growing up, I’d take packs to school and sell ‘em. She was amazed they went so quick. She doesn’t usually like my cooking. She’ll even cook her own food at the restaurant—something steamed, never anything with too much oil.
WYA: Describe your mother in one word.
CLG: Lovable.
LM: Loyal.
EA: Teacher.
QT: Terminator.
Plant to your heart’s delight using these garden tips for a bountiful home garden that lasts from spring through the dog days of summer.
What is your picture-perfect summer garden? Whether you’re experienced or new to gardening, proper preparation and planning are key to a successful home garden in New Orleans.
Dr. Joe Willis, an Agricultural and Natural Resources agent in New Orleans, stated the mantra “Right plant. Right place. Right time.” is the secret to a flourishing summer garden. “First, assess where you are going to plant—whether in the ground, raised beds, or containers,” suggested Dr. Willis.
He stressed the importance of starting with a soil test, which can be mailed to the LSU AgCenter, located at 104 Sturgis Hall in Baton Rouge, for a cost of $11.“Soil plays a huge part in the growth and development of your plants,” said Dr. Willis. “You can get the results within seven days on either the native soil or the soil in the containers, including a potting mix.”
For the next step, Dr. Willis posed the question, “How much sun does your garden get?” He recommends monitoring sunlight exposure at various times throughout the day. “Generally, the east side of the house will get the morning sun, the west side of the house will get the evening sun, and the south side will get the all-day sun. By knowing the location and amount of sunlight, you can get a list of all the plants to put in your garden including annuals, perennials, or even a mix.”
Another part of planning your summer garden entails selecting a color scheme, whether with a few colors or variations of one. “A mass planting of a single color looks best,” Dr. Willis said. “You can also mix a mass of another color to create big swatches of color.”
Fill in the beds with mulch to a depth of two to three inches, he suggested. “Putting mulch in your garden like pine or straw will help maintain the soil’s moisture and keep the weeds down. A light-colored mulch is best during the summer to help the soil stay cooler.”
Equally important for your garden’s growth is choosing a water source and irrigation system. “Avoid overhead water systems,” Dr. Willis said. “Water the soil by hose because you use less water and wet foliage tends to get disease.” He explained that the only way plants absorb water is at the roots.
Lastly, Dr. Willis noted that sun-loving annuals are easy to grow and add curb appeal to your garden during the hot summer months. “Annuals are really popular in New Orleans,” Dr. Willis said. “You only have to plant them twice a year and you have color all year round.”
LSU AgCenter Horticulture Extension Agent Anna Timmerman agreed. She advised to clean out beds during the month of May as cool-season annuals such as foxglove, pansies, and petunias finish then plant warm-season annuals.
DIG IN
Tips for a Beautiful Summer Garden of Flowers & Veggies
By Celeste Turner
Timmerman mentioned planting vibrant flowers including torenia, coleus, verbena, lantana, pentas, salvia, impatiens, geraniums, begonias, and cleomes. More heat-loving flowers that require little to no maintenance or effort include sunflowers, monarda, rudbeckias, and hibiscus. “We are very lucky in that flower gardening is a year-round pursuit here in New Orleans, “ Timmerman said. “Most gardeners use May as a good transition time.”
If you want to incorporate roses into your garden, Paul Soniat, a horticulturist and former director of the New Orleans Botanical Gardens, recommended planting Knock Out roses. “During the summer, Knock Out roses are prolific bloomers and disease resistant,” Soniat said. “They can be planted at any time. Also, old garden roses are much easier to care for during the summer. They don’t get disease or insects, and these roses blend well with the landscape.”
Soniat noted that some flowers, such as daisies, are pollinators, while others serve as host plants. “If you have milkweed in your garden, monarch butterflies will come to lay their eggs on this host plant,” Soniat said. “Likewise, swallowtail butterflies like citrus, fennel, and dill to lay their eggs.”
While some flowers attract butterflies, Dr. Willis stated that long tubular flowers can draw hummingbirds to your garden. “You can find lists of butterfly, honey bee, and hummingbirdattracting plants online. Pre-planting is the best way to be successful with your summer garden.”
May is also an ideal time to plan and prepare your summer vegetable garden. Leo Gorman, farm manager of the Grow Dat Youth Farm in City Park, begins the planting phase of their market crops around March 15 through mid-September.
“Crops that will germinate and thrive in the heat are tomatoes, eggplant, and peppers,” Gorman said. “Vining crops like watermelon, cantaloupe, cucumbers, and squash are plentiful during the summer months. Even winter squash is a heat-loving squash that grows in the summer and is harvested in the fall. Basil and okra grow well in the heat, too.”
Gorman, a farmer with 13 years of experience, advised home vegetable gardeners to follow this good rule of thumb: plant in full sun, in well-drained soil, and amend with organic fertilizer to combat seasonal challenges such as heat, drought, excessive flooding, disease, and pests.
Whether you’re a gardening pro or a beginner, thoughtful planning, mindful plant choices, and well-prepared garden beds will produce the best results. “Summer is the most difficult and least productive time to garden in the Deep South,” Timmerman commented. “Choose the proper plants and cultivars recommended for the season. Garden centers will often offer many plants out of season, but a little research can help guide your planting choices tremendously. Timing is the best weapon a gardener has in creating beautiful gardens here.”
FOOD NEWS
As sure as eggs on Sunday
Dynamic drag duo Lou Henry Hoover and Kitten LaRue have officially opened permanent digs for their momand-pop sweet stand Chance in Hell Snoballs. The popular sno-ball stand began as a side-project out of the married couple’s home until they were sidelined by pesky city permitting. Chance in Hell has been popping up in Bywater Brew Pub until recently as they just opened the doors of the stand’s new home on Louisa Street, right across from Alma Café. They’re slinging “artisanal AF” icy treats for people, and they’re pets, featuring flavors such as lemon ice box pie, ube cream, sour cherry, sweet corn and basil, banana puddin’, root beer, and more.
805 Louisa St., @chanceinhell_ snoballs
Stuffed legends . . . A new Chinese restaurant dubbed Legend Dumplings opened under the radar, hidden by latest, various other hooplas around the GNO. Located on Manhattan Boulevard in Harvey, this shiny spot took over the space previously occupied by Bud’s Broiler, serving assorted dumplings, buns, and ramen. Most of the offerings are traditional in fillings and flavors—from pork and celery to shrimp bamboo— but they also have more creative, panfried options including Philly cheesesteak and chargrilled oyster dumplings. Anything’s worth a try, even mac ‘n’ cheese dim sum, right?
Better late than never . . . Several months ago, I announced the opening of Brown Butter Depot in Gretna, a reboot of the great Mid-City restaurant owned by Simon Beck and Chef Dayne Womax that closed back in May 2023. Turns out, I was wrong. They actually just opened in April (for real this time—I double checked). Fans can now cross the river for a taste of their crisp, bubbly pork rinds, pimento cheese and deviled ham, and last, but certainly not least, their absolutely friggin' amazeballs Brown Butter Burger with aged cheddar, bread and butter pickles, and roasted garlic mayo.
326 Huey P. Long Ave., Gretna, brownbutterrestaurant.com
Even more majestic . . . As if their house made Turkish delight and huge assortment of roasted nuts, coffees, teas, dried spices, and imported treats were not enough, Royal Roastery in Terrytown is offering Westbank denizens a whole lot more. They’ve just expanded the space in their Terrytown digs to offer seating and regal-level sweets, serving coffee, crepes, waffles, kunafa, Arabic ice cream, gelato, ash al bulbul (shredded pastry bird nest sweets), and Dubai chocolate cakes (among others). We’re not worthy.
1180 Terry Pkwy., Terrytown, (504) 800-8555, royalroastery.com
Lounging around Uptown . . . The new owners of Gautreau’s, a local investment group led by Bill Kearney and Jay Adams, decided to expand the restaurant’s libation-oriented offerings and have now done so with the launch of Avegno, an upscale lounge located right next door. A massive rehaul of the former pet store Wings and Things is now an Italian-themed cocktail and wine lounge with its own menu wholly separate from Gautreau’s. Executive Chef Rob Mistry is serving dishes including munchable cheese straws, black truffle dip, fondue, macaroni au gratin, and French onion soup.
1726 Soniat St., @avegnoneworleans
Sophisticated sushi . . . Former Shogun sushi chef Tommy Mei recently opened Kuro NOLA, a new sushi bar on the corner of Magazine and Thalia streets in the Lower Garden District. The restaurant took over the space that once housed the uberpopular, American Chinese joint Blue Giant, which closed after three, too short years in business. It’s all sushi—especially nigiri at Kuro NOLA, with everything coming in fresh from salmon belly and tai snapper to aji, sea urchin, and yellowtail. Order from the board or go omakase and let the chef wow you until you can no longer breathe. Just be sure to have plenty of “ducats” saved up before you go, because the bill will get thick quick.
1300 Magazine St., @kuro_nola
Marigold blooms again . . . The French Quarter has another elegant courtyard café in which to while away the day dubbed Patula. Located on Royal Street right next to Krewe, the local luxury eyewear company, Patula is the brainchild of Chef Rob Tabone, Link Restaurant Group alum and Wood Duck popup purveyor. Along with sophisticated cocktails and pastries from Ayu Bakehouse, the intimate courtyard spot is serving up dishes such as poached Louisiana shrimp with peanut chili crunch and satsuma, as well as a gorgeous roast beef sandwich served on house made, toasted focaccia with horseradish aioli.
619 Royal St., @patulanola
Corner side cuisine . . . Self-taught chef Jaryd Kase cashed in on a broken foot to launch Bodega, a new casual lunch spot located in the space once home to Barcia’s Grocery on Annunciation Street. With a menu that veers all over the map, Bodega is serving up breakfast and lunch featuring the King’s Eggs with ratatouille and chevre atop a potato pancake, grilled banana bread with a dollop of Greek yogurt, and chimichurri steak sandwich served on Bellegarde Bakery sourdough bread.
3633 Annunciation St., bodega-nola.com
Hope it won’t be gone tomorrow . . . Wild South’s former home has transformed into Here
Today Rotisserie, a new concept from Chef Michael Stoltzfus, chef and owner of Garden District restaurant Coquette. The corner spot on Constance Street is now offering a fresh, affordable menu focusing on approachable eats including gumbo made with their rotisserie chicken and drippings and Best Stop andouille, rigatoni alla vodka, a chicken schnitzel sandwich, and chicken fat rice.
1245 Constance St., @heretodaynola
RESTAURANT GUIDE
AMERICAN
Crescent City Steaks is the oldest familyowned steakhouse in New Orleans and has been sizzling steaks since 1934. It is praised throughout the city, and their menu of steaks, seafood, and potatoes shouldn’t be missed. 1001 N. Broad St., (504) 821-3271, crescentcitysteaks.com
Daisy Dukes offers all-day breakfast and Southern and New Orleans classics. Daisy Dukes guarantees you a quick and tasty meal from the blackened alligator platter to the chicken Philly cheesesteak and classic burger. Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com
Dat Dog is a family-friendly restaurant offering a wide selection of gourmet hot dogs. Try house specialties such as the Bacon Werewolf hot dog topped with bacon, sauerkraut, dill relish, and Creole mustard. Multiple Locations, datdog.com
Jimmy J’s Café is a first come, first serve café where everything is made from scratch. With large portions, Jimmy J’s offers specialty dishes such as the Monte Cristo French Toast and eggs ranchero 115 Chartres St., (504) 309-9360, jimmyjscafe.com
unique menu catered to the tastes of visitors and vampires. Try one of their “blood type” cocktails or grab a blood bag to sip alongside their Dracula burger. 801 Royal St., (504) 581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com
NOLA Steak offers a casual steak experience and is popular for their Sunday jazz brunch buffet and their Thursday night all you can eat boiled shrimp deal. Try specialities such as the Magnolia Mushroom Campanelle 4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (885) 805-5596, boomtownneworleans.com
Vampire Apothecary Restaurant and Bar offers a unique experience of decadent cuisine, craft cocktails, and tarot readings in an immersive atmosphere. Try the boudin stuffed quail while sipping a cocktail crafted to your aura. 725 St. Peter St., (504) 7668179, vampireapothecary.com
ASIAN
Asia serves Chinese and Vietnamese specialty dishes inside of Boomtown Casino & Hotel New Orleans. Whether you try the crab rangoon, pork pot stickers, or the lo mein noodles, you’ll be choosing something delicious. 4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (504) 364-8812, boomtownneworleans.com
Legacy Kitchen’s Steak + Chop offers a warm and inviting environment to enjoy tasty steak and innovative dishes. Their specialty dishes, including the Legacy Surf & Turf, are best paired with one of the restaurant’s craft cocktails. 91 Westbank Expy., Gretna, (504) 513-2606, legacykitchen.com
Luke is a Creole-inspired brasserie highlighting local ingredients and fresh seafood from the Gulf. Don’t miss specialty dishes, including the Louisiana blue crab omelette for breakfast and their ragout of braised oxtails for dinner. 333 St. Charles Ave., (504) 378-2840, lukeneworleans. com
New Orleans Vampire Café offers a
Mikimoto Restaurant is a Japanese restaurant with a wide selection of fresh sushi. Try unique sushi including the South Carrollton Roll featuring tuna tataki or the Crescent City Roll with snow crab and spicy crawfish. 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 4881881, mikimotosushi.com
Thai’d Up is an authentic Thai restaurant with dishes such as jalapeño poppers and coconut shrimp as appetizers and a variety of entrées. Don’t miss their famed Thai beignets at this hidden gem in Gentilly. 1839 Gentilly Blvd., (504) 644-5790, thaidup.co
BARS WITH GREAT FOOD
Bourbon “O” Bar offers cozy vibes in the Bourbon Orleans Hotel. In addition to upscale bar food and drinks, the bar also hosts live music every day from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. 730 Bourbon St., (855) 771-5214, bourbonorleans.com
JB’s Fuel Dock offers comfort food with service at their dock, bar, and in their dining room. Whether you are craving a cheese pizza or JB’s jalapeno popper pizza, JB’s has what you need. 126 S. Roadway St., (504) 5102260, jbsfueldock.com
Le Bon Temps Roule is a classic New Orleans bar offering typical bar eats alongside live music performances. Try the Texas steak melt, featuring steak, pepper sauce, bacon, grilled onions, and pepper jack. 4801 Magazine St., (504) 897-3448, lbtrnola.com
Rivershack Tavern is a restaurant on historic River Road, featuring live music and a lively atmosphere. Their beer selection and Louisiana pub grub, such as the roast beef po-boy, make this a Jefferson favorite. 3449 River Rd., Jefferson, (504) 834-4938, rivershacktavern.com
The Blackbird Hotel offers food and drinks poolside, in their courtyard, and at their lobby bar. Perfect for enjoying morning coffee or sharing cocktails and a few bites with friends, don’t miss the Blackbird Hotel. 1612 Prytania St., (504) 383-7500, theblackbirdnola.com
The Channel features a wide selection of traditional pub food with a taste of Irish and New Orleans culinary traditions. Make sure to try the loaded crispy potato skins or their fried pickles. 2604 Magazine St., (504) 3814680, thechannelneworleans.com
The Jimani is a classic New Orleans sports bar with all your favorites. With everything from Chicago-style hot dogs to their specialty Serafino’s spicy crab po-boy, this is the spot for a late night bite. 141 Chartres St., (504) 524-0493, thejimani.com
CAFÉ
Café Amelie is a romantic restaurant with a beautiful courtyard. Their brunch menu features dishes such as chicken and waffles and cochon de lait served with braised pork, Cajun mayo, and pickles on ciabatta. 900 Royal St., (504) 412-8065, cafeamelie. com
The Vintage Restaurant serves delicious coffee, beignets, and baked goods. Try the fancy beignet flight to taste some of the best beignets in New Orleans, as well as their crawfish queso and charcuterie boards. 3121 Magazine St., (504) 608-1008, thevintagenola.com
Willa Jean is a beloved bakery serving dishes such as the Hangover Bowl, filled with pork debris, cheesy grits, and eggs. Don’t miss specials such as the fried chicken and Tabasco honey biscuit. 611 O’Keefe Ave., (504) 509-7334, willajean.com
CARIBBEAN
Jamaican Jerk House brings Jamaica to New Orleans with their homemade jerk sauce and authentic dishes. From oxtails to jerk chicken, there’s much to choose from and you’ll surely be back for more. 4017 St. Claude Ave., (504) 441-8905, jamaicanjerkhouse.com
FRENCH
King Brasserie and Bar mixes the flavors of the French Riviera and Louisiana in dishes including the sea urchin carbonara and bouillabaisse. This elevated restaurant is perfect for everything from casual drinks to private events. 521 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 3243000, kingbrasserieandbar.com
Restaurant August is an elevated contemporary restaurant celebrating Creole culinary traditions. Try their dry-aged duck breast from the traditional menu or try Chef Corey Thomas’ tasting menu to experience some of Restaurant August’s specialties. 301 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 299-9777, restaurantaugust.com
ITALIAN
Domenica Restaurant is an elegant and modern Italian restaurant located within the Roosevelt Hotel. Taste their roasted cauliflower with whipped feta or visit during happy hour for a selection of half-priced pizzas and drinks. 123 Baronne St., (504) 648-6020, domenicarestaurant.com
Mosca’s Restaurant is a beloved family-style restaurant serving everything from spaghetti and meatballs to chicken a la grande. Mosca’s continues to serve many of the same dishes as they were served in 1946. 4137 US Highway 90 W., Westwego, (504) 4368950, moscasrestaurant.com
Pizza Domenica offers specialty pizzas in a lively atmosphere. Enjoy speciality dishes including the mortadella with ricotta, honey, basil, and Firelli hot sauce or the tutto carne with mozzarella, sausage, salami, and bacon. Multiple Locations, pizzadomenica.com
U Pizza serves specialty pizzas, as well as a variety of gluten free, halal, vegan, and vegetarian choices. Try the Streetcar Pizza with Cajun cream sauce, Louisiana crawfish, shrimp, and jalapeños in this family-friendly environment. 1513 St. Charles Ave., (504) 381-4232, upizzanola.com
Venezia is an authentic Italian restaurant offering large portions and a comforting ambiance—perfect for date night. Don’t miss out on house specialties including the Supreme Pasta with shrimp and crawfish in dill cream sauce. Multiple Locations, venezianeworleans.com
LATIN
34 Restaurant & Bar is a modern restaurant inspired by Chef Emeril Lagasse’s Portuguese heritage. The menu is filled with dishes such as paella with Gulf shrimp and rabbit, as well as duck rice. 710 Baronne St., (504) 4983434, 34restaurantandbar.com
Alma Café is an award-winning restaurant that celebrates Honduran food and culture. Try their signature pollo chuco for dinner, which features a fried chicken thigh with fried guineo and green cabbage. Multiple Locations, eatalmanola.com
Empanola is a cozy eatery serving specialty empanadas such as the Beef Argentina and the Chicken Peruvian. Try the specialty crawfish étouffée empanada and dive into the varied tastes of this goto comfort spot. Multiple Locations, empanolaempanadas.com
Legacy Kitchen’s Steak + Chop
MIDDLE EASTERN
Lebanon’s Café serves Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes that are both comforting and hearty. Try their traditional or specialty hummus, such as the fried cauliflower and pomegranate sauce hummus or the beetroot hummus. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com
Shaya is a contemporary Mediterranean restaurant that uses ingredients sourced in Louisiana. Enjoy dishes including lamb ragu hummus and cauliflower hummus with homemade pita. Try one of their specialty entrées, namely the Gulf shrimp kebab. 4213 Magazine St., (504) 891-4213, shayarestaurant.com
NEW ORLEANS CUISINE
Cajun Flames features traditional Louisiana dishes and American classics such as Cajun seafood pasta, half a rooster, and Cajun oysters. Cajun Flames gives an authentic taste of local foods alongside their decadent menu of cocktails. 1117 Decatur St., (504) 3541214, cajunflames.com
Crescent City Brewhouse is a bistro and microbrewery featuring local craft beers. Crescent City Brewhouse offers a combination of classic New Orleans and pub dishes such as the Brewhouse Hot Wings and the Brewhouse Ribs. 527 Decatur St., (504) 522-0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com
Evangeline serves Cajun specialties and craft beers for brunch and dinner. Try dishes including the fried alligator and waffles or the Hangover Po-Boy alongside a cold beer. Evangeline’s serves large portions of local delicacies. 329 Decatur St., (504) 3734852, evangelineneworleans.com
Headquarters by Nice Guys NOLA is a Cajun/Creole restaurant that seamlessly marries an elevated dining experience with fun live music. Don’t miss out on their specials,
including the blueberry drop martini—their signature cocktail. 445 S. Rampart St., (504) 217-6851, headquartersnola.com
House of Blues New Orleans is known for its entertainment but also features a delicious Southern-style menu. With dishes such as blackened salmon and the Bluesville hot chicken, the menu matches the venue’s lively and bustling energy. 225 Decatur St., (504) 310-4999, houseofblues.com/ neworleans
Lakeview Harbor is a family-owned eatery with a wide selection of steaks, sandwiches, and Southern delicacies, including fried pickles and pork belly burnt ends. End a perfect day with a visit to Lakeview Harbor. 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., (504) 486-4887, lakeviewharbor.us
Legacy Kitchen’s Craft Tavern is a refined restaurant that’s known for their authentic Louisiana cuisine. Try the crawfish and egg beignets for breakfast and stick around to taste the Shrimp Breaux Bridge Pasta for lunch. 700 Tchoupitoulas St. #3612, (504) 613-2350, legacykitchen.com
Lil’ Dizzy’s Café specializes in New Orleans cuisine while celebrating Creole culinary traditions. Check out their daily specials and enjoy dishes such as stuffed bell peppers, smothered okra with rice and fried chicken, and more. 1500 Esplanade Ave., (504) 7668687, lildizzyscafe.net
Loretta’s Authentic Pralines offers a variety of pralines, beignets, and other classic treats found in New Orleans. Prepared and served fresh, Loretta’s sweet treats are a delicacy to be treasured, especially the praline-filled beignets. Multiple Locations, lorettaspralines.com
Lyons Corner offers an extensive coffee drink selection and a food menu featuring Cajun prawns, a maple fried pork belly, and the Flounder Pontchartrain. Lyons Corner brings the essence of New Orleans to life. 537 Gravier St., (504) 527-0006, lyonscornernola.com
Mandina’s Restaurant is a home-style seafood restaurant specializing in Creole-Italian cuisine. Start with the turtle soup or the crab claws, but save room for the grilled pork chops with fries and green beans. 3800 Canal St., (504) 482-9179, mandinasrestaurant.com
Meril is a contemporary American restaurant that specializes in globally inspired dishes such as Vietnamese caramel wings, fried turkey necks, and Mexican street corn. Pair your meal with one of Meril’s signature cocktails. 424 Girod St., (504) 526-3745, bemeril.com
Mother’s Restaurant is known for its legendary baked ham and all-day breakfast menu, which includes crawfish étouffée, po-boys, pancakes, and more. Along with the breakfast menu, Mother’s serves Bloody Marys, mimosas, and other cocktails. 401 Poydras St., (504) 523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net
Lebanon’s Café
RESTAURANT GUIDE
New Orleans Creole Cookery offers authentic NOLA cuisine such as catfish Decatur and shrimp Creole and classic drinks including the Hurricane. From the food to their stunning courtyard, the restaurant embodies the city’s unique spirit. 510 Toulouse St., (504) 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com
Neyow’s Creole Café is a local favorite with specials including charbroiled oysters and gumbo. Don’t miss out on the Pasta on the Bayou with Gulf shrimp and crawfish, which will have your mouth watering. 3332 Bienville St., (504) 827-5474, neworleans.neyows.com
Neyow’s XL offers a variety of quality cut meats and seafood dishes and is particularly known for their extravagant brunch menu. Perfect for a date night or lunch with friends, this restaurant is a must-visit. 3336 Bienville St., (504) 503-1081, xl.neyows.com
Nice Guys NOLA offers New Orleans classics with innovative twists in a welcoming atmosphere. Order the Louisiana seafood potato, which features fried catfish and shrimp in seafood cheese sauce on a baked potato. 7910 Earhart Blvd., (504) 302-2404, niceguysnola.com
Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro offers a fine dining menu that features
delicacies such as the Cajun surf and turf and the Gulf fish amandine. Don’t skip their delicious starters, including the baked brie. 720 Orleans Ave., (504) 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com
Parasol’s Bar & Restaurant has been the hub for St. Patrick’s Day in New Orleans since 1952. Their muffulettas, roast beef po-boys, and smoke-free dining room should not be missed. 2533 Constance St., (504) 3549079, facebook.com/ParasolsNOLA
Please-U-Restaurant offers breakfast all day and traditional New Orleans dishes. Founded by local Greek entrepreneurs, PleaseU-Restaurant takes on a fusion of Greek and Southern flavors—a unique combination you didn’t know you needed in your life. 1751 St. Charles Ave., (504) 525-9131, pleaseunola.com
Short Stop Poboys offers over 30 different types of po-boys and has been a local favorite for decades. Whether you are looking for something hot, cold, big, or small, Short Stop has something for everyone. 119 Transcontinental Dr., Metairie, (504) 885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com
Voodoo Chicken and Daiquiris offers the perfect place for late night eating and drinking with their fried chicken and fruity daiquiris. Whether it be gumbo,
jambalaya, or fried seafood, you can find it at Voodoos. Multiple Locations, voodoochickenanddaiquirisnola.com
Willie Mae’s NOLA serves some of the best fried chicken in the U.S. In addition to their famous chicken, the restaurant also serves NOLA staples including fried seafood, gumbo, catfish étouffée, and beignets. 898 Baronne St., (504) 354-8194, williemaesnola.com
SEAFOOD
Blue Bayou Restaurant & Oyster Bar serves Louisiana cuisine and Southern classics such as chargrilled oysters and fried alligator bites. Dive into the delicacies of Louisiana
under the swamp-ish ambiance of Spanish moss in their interior. 717 Canal St., (504) 453-9905, bluebayourestaurantnola.com
Bon Temps Boulet’s Seafood specializes in boiled crawfish. Bon Temps Boulet’s menu doesn’t stop there as they also have dishes that include the 24-hour smoked brisket and smoked fried wings, among others. 4701 Airline Dr., Metairie, (504) 885-5003, bontempsboulets.com
Briquette is known for their fine seafood offerings. Visit the restaurant and taste their speckled Gulf trout almandine or the Snapper Pontchartrain. Book a reservation, and don’t miss their 18-foot display of fresh, whole fish. 701 S. Peters St., (504) 302-7496, briquette-nola.com
Drago’s Seafood Restaurant specializes in chargrilled oysters and lobster dishes, such as the Lobster Marco, which is stuffed with shrimp, mushrooms, and pasta. You won’t want to miss the crabmeat au gratin. Multiple Locations, dragosrestaurant.com
Legacy Kitchen’s Tacklebox brings the Gulf Coast to shore with their freshly shucked oysters and seafood-studded menu. This is an upscale restaurant that truly embodies Southern hospitality from the comforting food to the welcoming staff. 817 Common St., (504) 827-1651, legacykitchen.com
The Blackbird Hotel 1612 Prytania St. 504-383-7500
Featuring a full bar, a mechanical bull, and Americana decor, this novelty bar is no joke. Wear your cowboy hat and order the Cowboy Punch, their signature 27 oz. drink.
Bourbon “O” Bar is a break from Bourbon Street. Experience live music while enjoying one of their specialty cocktails including the French Quarter Float or the Leave of Absinthe.
Owned by Tropical Isle, the originators of the (in)famous Hand Grenade drink, this bar specializes in live blues and country performers while serving the Hand Grenade drink you love.
The Fillmore is on the second floor of Caesars New Orleans Hotel & Casino and hosts big and small named musical artists, as well as full-service private productions with custom drink menus and mixologists.
A fun spin on usual bar fare, this “spooky” spot offers plenty of themed cocktails, is open until very early in the morning, and offers plenty of delicious food options including pizza.
Headquarters is a sister establishment of Nice Guys Nola. This trendy spot has DJ nights, wine, beer, and specialty drinks, including a Blueberry Drop Martini.
This elevated cocktail lounge and restaurant offers contemporary Creole cuisine alongside expertly crafted drinks. High Grace features plush seating and mood lighting, perfect for enjoying their signature cocktails and seasonal small plates.
The House of Blues can be enjoyed as both a restaurant and a music venue. Order one of their specialty cocktails including the Beast of Bourbon and Strawberry Fields.
The Boondock Saint 731 St. Peter St. 504-525-4950
The Channel 2604 Magazine St.
504-381-4680
The Jazz Playhouse
300 Bourbon St.
504-553-2299
The Jimani 141 Chartres St. 504-524-0493
The Metropolitan 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd.
504-568-1702
The Vintage 3121 Magazine St. 504-324-7144
Tropical Isle Multiple Locations 504-523-1927
Lots a Luck Tavern is a true laid-back, locals bar. Go by yourself to catch a game with some fellow fans or bring a group to enjoy affordable drinks and a game of pool.
Martine’s Lounge is a classic neighborhood bar with darts, video poker, and happy hour every day. Wednesdays are for trivia, and order a cocktail from one of their daily specialty cocktails.
Pal’s Lounge is a great hangout spot with creative specialty cocktails, beers, and shots. Order their Honey Lavender Rose Sangria or their “House Salad” drink.
Parasol’s is a neighborhood bar with a selection of NOLA eats, including the best roast beef po-boy in town. Stop by and enjoy their cold, refreshing drinks.
Rick’s Cabaret is one of New Orleans’ finest gentlemen’s clubs. With two floors of entertainment, three bars, and a friendly staff, you can’t go wrong.
The only place in New Orleans where you can find a mechanical, rideable rooster, saddle up to Saddle Bar and order one of their Western-inspired cocktails, including the Ranch Water.
Sazerac House is a distillery and museum honoring the legacy of one of New Orleans’ most famous cocktails—the Sazerac. Guests can experience a special tasting area.
Home of the famous 10 oz. Swamp Burger and many more hearty options including steak and wings, the Swamp Room is a perfect spot to dine, drink, and watch the big game while in Metairie.
The Blackbird Hotel boasts a dramatic interior, including a full-service bar that locals and visitors adore. Their vast drink menu serves draft beer, fine wine, and unique cocktails.
The Boondock Saint is an Irish pub that is all about cool drinks and good times. The bar, located in the heart of the French Quarter, has plenty of beer and other drinks to choose from.
The Channel is a cozy, Irish pub that serves craft beer, wine, and delicious eats—including a decadent cheeseburger. Their New Orleans-style bar food menu and refreshing drinks make it a great place to watch the big game.
The Jazz Playhouse is located in the lobby of Royal Sonesta. Enjoy some local jazz music while ordering a jazz-inspired signature drink, including Ella Fitzgerald’s Pearflower Martini.
Family-owned and opened in 1971, the Jimani has an impressive food menu, over 100 beers, and a door that stays open until 4 a.m. They even have jello shots.
The Metro is a top-notch nightclub with three rooms featuring smoke machines and lighting effects. With 11 bar stations, it’s the ideal place to party all night and enjoy plenty of drinks.
The Vintage is a chic café with coffee, pastries, cocktails, wine, and more. Order their beignets and one of their crafted cocktails, including the Espresso Yourself and Tia’s Can Can.
Home of the Hand Grenade, a drink synonymous with Bourbon Street, Tropical Isle has multiple locations across Bourbon Street. They also have other iconic drinks including the Tropical Itch.
FILM REVIEWS
Sinners The Amateur
Writer, director, and producer Ryan Coogler has said that one of his influences for his Southern Gothic vampire film Sinners is the 1996 Robert Rodriguez horror outing From Dusk Till Dawn. Coogler, however, has made a much better movie with Sinners, creating a horror that is deeper than the average blood fest.
Sinners takes place in 1932 where identical twins “Smoke” and “Stack” (Michael B. Jordan in a dual role) return to the Mississippi Delta to open a juke joint after years of working for Al Capone in Chicago. They hire their young cousin Sammie (Miles Caton), an aspiring blues guitarist, despite Sammie’s pastor father believing that the blues is the devil’s music. Little do they all know that they are headed toward a supernatural presence in the form of vampires.
Overstuffed with terrific performances, the cast also includes Delroy Lindo, Hailee Steinfeld, Jack O’Connell, and even Buddy Guy.
While the story takes place in Mississippi, Sinners was shot all over Louisiana: New Orleans, LaPlace, Donaldsonville, Bogalusa, Labadieville, and Thibodaux. Coogler makes great use of these locations, and Autumn Durald Arkapaw’s cinematography is immaculate as it captures the soul of the South.
Besides the slow first half, which needed more of a feeling of dread, there were a few other minor issues with the film, including an unintentionally funny sex
scene in the first half of the film that comes out of nowhere. The scene would have worked better with just passionate kissing between the two characters. There is also an elaborate dream-like sequence showing how the music of the past inspires the music of the future, and it’s all kind of pretentious. Then there is a key moment in the film with a Native America tribe, but they never make another appearance.
These are just tiny quibbles, because once the vampire action starts, Sinners really kicks into high gear. It’s tense and exciting, with rich characterizations, cool vampire lore, and even a brilliant epilogue. –David Vicari
There’s a refreshingly old-school feel about The Amateur, even though it features a lot of modern technology. That might have something to do with it being based on a 1981 book by Robert Littell. Charlie (Rami Malek) is a nerdy, awkward CIA analyst and tech whiz. One day, his wife is killed in a terrorist attack while in London on business.
Devastated and frustrated by his superiors’ evasions when it comes to catching and punishing her killers, Charlie uses his inside knowledge to blackmail his boss (Hoyt McCallany) into allowing him mission training to hunt and kill the perpetrators. Charlie is trained by Henderson (Laurence Fishburne), who is decidedly unimpressed at first with Charlie. When the bosses realize Charlie is bluffing about being able to release the incriminating documents if he is killed, Charlie narrowly escapes and sets off to Europe to hunt the killers.
The Amateur consistently features good, meat-and-potatoes storytelling. Charlie does not come by the field work easily. He makes a lot of mistakes early on, and the script keeps turning up the pressure as he has to outwit both his wife’s killers and the CIA people pursuing him—who won’t be taking Charlie back alive if they find him.
Malek is an Oscar winner, and he brings a necessary humanity to the role. Viewers feel his pain. Even after the body count has piled up, when Malek is face-to-face with the lead terrorist, he reminds viewers that the story is centered around the loss of a human being who mattered to someone. He gets strong support from Fishburne and Michael Stuhlbarg (as the lead terrorist).
If you don’t want mid-level studio genre fare targeted at adults to be washed away entirely by comic book and video game movies, you need to see movies like The Amateur—or Drop or Warfare—in theaters. –Fritz Esker
Music is the great uniter. An incredible force. Something that people who differ on everything and anything else can have in common.”
Sarah Dessen, writer
I am listening to the Soul Brass Band compliments of WWOZ as I sit, staring at my computer screen. News alerts keep coming at me on my cell device— democracy is slipping away. Super Bowl LIX is taking hold of the city, and our local news leads with “New Orleans bans coolers in French Quarter Super Bowl security zone— but not guns.” “Trumpets Not Guns” by the late, great Travis Hill just played over the airwaves.
As you might gather, my columns for this magazine are submitted well in advance of the here-and-now in which you are—hopefully—reading this. I am optimistic that the Super Bowl will have been a huge success (rah-rah, but glad it’s over) and that our Mardi Gras and French Quarter Fest were once again creative extravaganzas—good times enjoyed by all. Before I forget, perhaps the city will plan better next time we host the Super Bowl and provide better transportation options for the massive number of workers and residents who must enter the difficult to reach areas blocked off to buses, cars, and parking? I suggest shuttles, the price of a bus fare, to operate from key areas. Furthermore, a big round of applause for all the working stiffs who make these events possible.
As this issue of Where Y’at finds you,
The Politics of Passing a Good Time TALES FROM THE QUARTER
By Debbie Lindsey
perhaps you are taking full advantage of the second week of our magical Jazz Fest. I will be seated, much of the time, in the Jazz Tent. I have my favorite spot, and, every year, it’s a reunion of “fester friends” from all over. Jazz Fest restores my faith in our city and humanity and also has the power to rejuvenate, even grow, creativity, community, and camaraderie. And this year, it has its work cut out for it—to safeguard our funk, our uniqueness, and, dare I say, our democracy.
In this very strange and dangerous political climate we are living in today, I believe we must look for ways to protect our democracy. Is this heavy-handed? The wrong time to talk politics? “It’s just a festival,” you might say. Well, no, it’s far more than folks eating and listening to live music.
It’s the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and it celebrates diversity, equity, and inclusion. It honors our regional culture, which is rich and diverse. And this year, Mexico will be showcased at the Expedia Cultural Exchange Pavilion—no room for xenophobia here.
There is no overlooking the elephant in the room. Our country is in uncharted
waters. Certainly we have weathered dangerous times before and have much history to come to grips with and much to be ashamed of. But always there was this thing called democracy. While many Americans through the years were not included fully in this experiment of democracy, we have made continuous strides towards its principals—until now. No matter who you voted for, you voted. And that means you care and want to be involved. I respect many folks I know that voted for the “other candidate.” We may not agree on a lot of things, but I believe in my heart that there is kindness and empathy in those I disagree with. Now is the time to come together and work to preserve the good that this country possesses. And to those of you that lean in my direction (good ole pinko liberals) and are overwhelmed with the mess we are facing, I say look around this festival and take in—breathe in—the quirky free spirited vibe. As long as we can stand with and support the diversity and various cultures that fill this Fair Grounds, we stay strong.
Jazz Fest will offer you a respite from the chaos while simultaneously reinforcing
all that must be protected. After this season of intense festing and fun, we must promise to get involved. We may not have a chance until the 2026 mid-term elections to affect change in Washington but we damn sure can “work it” at the local level now. Get friends and family to register to vote. Voting is a “use it or lose it” right/privilege. We need active and compassionate Republicans and Independents. Even if they vote for someone I don’t care for, they are keeping this vital part of democracy alive—our right to vote.
And to those who voted for Mister T, you can have buyer’s remorse. It’s okay. Or perhaps you stand by your man—but you do not need to be in lockstep. Hold “your” president’s feet to the fire. I don’t always agree with my elected candidates of choice, but I have a voice. We all have a voice. Call, write, disagree with them. And when they do a great job, call, write, show support.
In New Orleans, we know how to blend a good time with a cause and party with a purpose. From fund raisers to blood donor drives and rebuilding after a storm or disaster, we do these things with creativity, music, and food. We wave the flags of our rainbow pride, fleur-de-lis, Rasta, Palestine, Star of David, Ukraine, Black Lives Matter, various political identities, Mardi Gras, WWOZ, Saints. We show off our true beliefs and passions. We work and fest alongside friends and neighbors that may vote differently from us, but we share the same potholes, football team, and know how to fest together. And make no mistake, music is an antidote—a vaccine—we can all agree on.
AMY RUSSO LBJ CARRIGAN CHAUVIN
PO-BOY VIEWS
By Phil LaMancusa
Pete or Repeat
“Well now, I get low and I get high If I can’t get either, I really try. Got wings of heaven on my shoes. I’m a dancin’ man and I just can’t lose.”
—Bee Gees, “Stayin’ Alive”
It’s the second week of Jazz Fest. Ready, set, go! By now, you’ve been to the first week or not. As a local, you’ve been to the beast on a break or not. You’re here or sitting it out or listening to it on WWOZ—or not. However, you cannot have missed the magic in the air that has allowed you to know the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (aka Jazz Fest) is back in full swing.
One thing that gets chatter going around the campfires of pubs, watering holes, coffee shops, or bus stops here is the, “Didja go? What was your first fest? Who have/did you see? What was your favorite of all times yesterday, today, or tomorrow?” Also, “Is it gonna rain? Do you have your tickets, sunscreen, towel? Did you see how much stuff that guy was toting around?”
Any fester worth their salt has “fest mates,” folks that you see (maybe only at the fest) or stand in line with or meet up with afterwards to commiserate about the day’s high points, pluses and minuses, hits and misses, and possibly a surprise or two. Maybe you’ll plan something for the following day, all the while meandering the streets around the fest’s perimeter, catching and tipping the pop up brass bands, snagging a cold one from one of the many local entrepreneurs, possibly buying a local craftsman’s offerings, and doing a little street shuffling. It’s Jazz Fest outside the gates as well as in, and you’re ready to “do a little dance, make a little love, and get down tonight. Get down tonight.”
If you’re really in with the happenings, you’ll have a family porch or two to visit and sit a spell, pet a dog, watch kids play, and smile, smile, smile. You wish that it could go on forever. You’re engaged, captivated, entertained, and moved by the whole experience.
Believe it or not, there are some people that are not that thrilled, or as thrilled as I am, about Jazz Fest. “It’s too crowded, too noisy, too expensive, too hot, too cold, too rainy, not my scene, etc.” And that’s more than okay with me. There are also people that really and simply cannot afford to go to the fest, and that’s not okay with me. The reality is that the price of a ticket to Jazz Fest is sometimes a full day’s wages for some people. Add in food and drink, and you can be talking about someone’s grocery funds. For those folks on a budget, there’s “Locals’ Days” (April 24 and May 1, both Thursdays). Tickets are $50 with local ID, and you can get
two per person. As you know, gates open at 11 a.m. and the action happens until 7 p.m. Do the math—that’s eight full hours, nonstop.
As an out of towner, and if this is (heaven forbid) your first fest—welcome. Welcome to your new and everlasting NOLA family. You’re free to start a conversation with anyone hereabouts. We’re a talkative group. We’ll answer most any questions that you have regarding whatever it takes to make your stay worth your being here.
There are a couple of street conversations that you might want to avoid though—people that want to give you beads and start a conversation (Carnival is over and anyone wearing beads is a sure “sucker on sight” beacon). If someone tells you that they “know where you got them shoes, city and state,” you can answer with, “Yeah, I got them on my feet, in New Orleans, Louisiana,” and walk on. How many birthdays do you have? “One, the rest are anniversaries.” Children that your mother had? “All of them.”
There’s someone that will “spill” toothpaste on your shoe (sneaker, sandal, bare foot) and then offer to clean it off— and continue to press you for that “spare dollar.” These people usually work in pairs—one to do the scamming and one surreptitiously hanging in the shadows in case you’re resistant. Walk on by, brother. They’re part of living here, and some folks believe that they’re charming— others don’t. As the sign says, “Beware of pickpockets and loose women.” And don’t follow some guy up a dark street so that he can “get you something” so you can get high—or higher.
One mistake that newbies fall prey to is the fact that you can drink here 24 hours a day, and it’s legal to actually drink in the street. You can get knee walking drunk and wind up stumbling around the corner to relieve your bladder or the contents of your stomach. Although this seems to be a popular pastime with the younger fools, both will get you in trouble.
Your stay here should be—according to us—a memorable one, and one way for that to occur is for you to be able to remember it all. Remember, if you love music and having a grand time, this city is able to give that to you 24 hours a day— and especially during Jazz Fest. There’s live music and fun all over town all day and night. Some shows don’t even start until dawn’s crack. Pace yourself. This is a marathon—not a sprint. Happy festing.
