The first day of the 2008 edition of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival was highlighted by good weather, fantastic food and Robert Plant. The former Led Zeppelin frontman, appearing with Alison Krauss and T-Bone Burnett in support of their recent release, still showed he has his moves and pipes intact. Rain on Saturday and Sunday created a “Woodstock” atmosphere with many fans jumping into the water and mud to swim, slip and slide.. I was fortunate enough to be able to escape to the Acura VIP tent when the Sunday deluge began. I suddenly realized that there was all this great catered food from Cafe Atchafalaya. I held off sampling the goods because I did crash the party. After meeting the caterer I felt comfortable about indulging. The crawfish remoulade and pecan pie with white chocolate were amazing. After the rain stopped I waded in knee deep water to re-join the party and catch Irma Thomas. Two years ago rain also preceded her set.
While roaming the fest I sampled boudin balls, crab cake with jalapeno honey mustard, and cushon de lait. The mango freeze and rosemint tea were life savers as the heat set in. I also tried the fried green tomatoes and spinach artichoke casserole. Musically, other highlights were blues great James Cotton, Rockin Dopsie, Jr.( doing James Brown hits) and Al Green. Cuban artist Calle 13 had a strong contingent waving the homeland flag. I had not seen Tab Benoit in over 15 years and was quite impressed at how much his guitar showmanship had improved. I also saw him as a member of the superstar jam Voice of the Wetlands All-Stars which also included George Porter, Jr., Dr John and Cyril Neville among others.
I managed to see several Mardi Gras Indian groups. One was paying tribute to the recently passed Buddy Miles, drummer for Hendrixs Band of Gypsies. The colorful costumes take years to make. One of the sad stories I heard was how the costumes were placed in the attic to save them, and many “Indians” being in the Ninth Ward, they were consumed when the water rose to 18 feet. I heard stories of how they were later retrieved after the water receded and nailed to the side of the house. One would have thought the Mardi Gras Indian culture was dead but their appearences at the last 3 Jazz Fests since Katrina are evidence that they are more determined than ever to continue their traditions.
I also caught some night shows at One Eyed Jacks and Tipitinas: Houseman (former Galactic frontman who I knew from his old bands 18 years ago), Blind Boys of Alabama, Preservation Hall, Rebirth, and Leo Nocentellis Rare Funk Gathering with Bernie Worrell, Doug Wimbish, and Will Calhoun. Leos show was off the chart and brought back memories of the old Tipitina’s days. Just have to mention one great find in Big Als restaurant on Annunciation. I had amazing fried oysters, soft shell crab and great hospitality. The place to go right before heading out to the night shows. I also enjoyed seeing many old friends and making new ones. I had the privilege of mentoring a photographer new to shooting festivals so we hung out all three days at the fest. I will provide a link to her photos when I get it. Friday I will head back down for Govt Mule and Grace Potter.
