This is not really a post about Mardi Gras, but in another sense it is. If you know anything at all about New Orleans, you know the music is a big part of the Mardi Gras celebration as well as any of the festivals in the area.
A few years back, before Hurricane Katrina, I was hanging out in Jackson Square in New Orleans. Jackson Square is located in the famous French Quarter, surrounded by ornate historic buildings. It has long been a haven for artists of every type, particularly musicians and painters.
On this particular day I was fortunate enough to hear the incredible artist Glen Davis Andrews, native of New Orleans who grew up in the Treme section of New Orleans. Treme is known to be one of the oldest as well as one of the most important historic neighborhoods in the country for African American culture.
I purchased an original CD from him during his performance in Jackson Square years ago and it's a special addition to my music collection. Check out some of his more recent releases below as well.
What struck me immediately about Glen David Andrews' performance was it's uniqueness, but also the similarity to the great Louis Armstrong in his trombone playing as well as vocals. His background includes membership in the New Birth Brass Band and Olympia Brass Band. Glen's rendition of "The Saints Go Marching In" was soulful and energetic. You can tell he not only loves the music, but also the traditions of New Orleans.
Check out the video from one of his performances at the Louisiana Music Factory.
Sondra Carpenter
The Mardi Gras Girl
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