This weekend was pretty darn quiet. I watched movies. I read. I drove from house to house to house taking care of animals. One would wonder why I am so tired. Mainly it is because I don't sleep well when I am not at my house. I also need a bit of noise when I fall asleep. I have had neither for over a week. If I get 3 hours of solid sleep? I consider it a good night right now. Yes I did go and see some music this weekend. It was the same person both nights.

Friday night I went to Carrollton Station to see Paul Sanchez play solo. Saturday night it was d.b.a and Alex McMurray sat in. I know I have said this before, so I will sound like a broken record. If you have never EVER seen a Paul Sanchez gig you need to check him out at least once. You will either get it, or you won't. Which is fine. I have seen some of the "regulars" show up with someone new to check out Paul's music and more often than not you start seeing those people again and again, and then they start bringing people. Not everyone knows who Paul is, some do and therefore don't want to check him out thinking he is doing what he was doing before. See for a really really REALLY long time, Paul was in the band Cowboy Mouth. A rock-n-roll band. Some people often say a college band. Some people (myself included) started getting bored at the shows, with the same things being said and done over and over. (I know a lot of bands do this so it isn't a dig against CM) You are either really really in the mood for one of their shows, or not. Anyway. Over a year and a half ago Paul left the band among some disputes. I don't know the full story, I don't want to know the full story, I don't NEED to know the full story. There is no law that says I can't enjoy both. Sadly CM very rarely seems to play in town anymore (like a certain trombone band I know) ;) Paul however has taken off with his solo shows. He has played Jazz Fest (okay three and a half songs before the rain forced them to stop) French Quarter Fest, Wednesday in the Square, the upcoming Voo Doo Fest. He is playing all across the country. Sometimes like on Friday night it is a solo show. Just Paul, his guitar, his songs, his stories. (point in case, I know most of the stories by now. Sometimes he gives a bit more information, but I always laugh) Sometimes it is a different musician sitting in. Could be another guitar player, could be a horn player, could be just about anyone. In the past he has had Susan Cowsill, Matt Perrine, Craig Klein, Shamarr Allen, James Andrews, Todd Duke, Alex McMurray, David Torkanowsky, Sonia Tetlow. Sometimes it is a duo, sometimes a trio, and if you are catching a festival show chances are pretty good you are going to see the Rolling Road Show. Now the Rolling Road Show consists of the above musicians, mixed and matched. Whoever is in town. And you know it is going to be an amazing show. Not only will Paul do his own music but he makes sure to showcase who ever is playing with him. Paul is a true troubadour. His songs and his stories are like a warm hug.

Paul and I knew each other as acquaintances before the storm. After the storm I helped gut out his and his wife's home. It was one of the hardest houses to work on. Not because of the muck and the nastiness but because I knew whose items it was I was tossing out on the curb. It was a pretty emotional day for everyone both happy and sad. I rarely miss one of Paul's shows because like I said, it is a warm hug every time. You just need to let the music sweep over you and take you away. Paul knows that I was the local merch person for Bonerama so from time to time he will ask me to sell CDs for him as well. He would often make comments that if he could afford me, he would hire me full time. Paul has found a way to make us both some money, so as of this weekend, I am under his employ. No this isn't something that I can live off of, but it is a start. He gave me a bunch of CDs this weekend and I am going to get them into stores, bookstores, coffee shops, where ever I can. I will get a portion, he will get a portion and the store selling will get a portion. So it is a step in the right direction.

Seeing how the job search isn't going any where fast, it could be the only income I have coming in here. I have been sending out resumes for a month and a half and have only heard back from a Temp Company. That was legitimate anyway. So I will keep chugging along trying to find something. Only a few more weeks to go. Only as slight panic setting in.

As I had previously mentioned this Jazz Fest was just a bit different for myself. Traditions that had been set in the past, well didn't happen. I did start the first day of Jazz Fest and the last day of the Fest out on my own. What I mean by that is that I made my way to the Fest on my own and for a majority of the days would go to the stages that I wanted to go to, see who I wanted, when I wanted, eat when I wanted and what not. It was nice. I did run into people I did know on those days and did spend time with them as well. The mud factor this year made it a bit more challenging to get around from stage to stage. Some fake crocs bought at the local drugstore made it almost bearable. The rain was pretty miserable on the first weekend. It wasn't so bad at the beginning, it was as it got colder and colder out did we get more miserable. I did try out a few more food dishes this year, and I think climbing up to the top of my favorites is the softshell crawfish poboy. Yes, softshell crawfish. Pretty darn delish. The music was top notch as always. I didn't catch many of the bigger acts, I rarely do. The only one I did in fact was Allison Krause and Robert Plant. The crowds get to much for me at the bigger stages. The only day it was durable was on Thursday. Of course that was the "locals" day. It was one of the best days at the fest. The weather was outstanding and the crowds were lighter. Of course Bonerama and PBS played and both of their sets were amazing. I wasn't all gung-ho with the Burlesque dancers, I do know I wasn't the only one. But it did get people talking about the band. I would rather see it be more about the music myself that got the people talking. Don't get me wrong, people did pay attention to the music and were talking about it, could have been more if it weren't for the dancers. PBS laid it straight out and had the people groovin to the tunes. I didn't make my way up front for either band, again because of the aforementioned crowds. My favorite sets other than my two bands were, Storyville Stompers, New Orleans Nightcrawlers, Leroy Jones, and the Bingo Show.

Again it was a lot of running around for me during the Fest. I do feel like I am still in recovery mode. In addition to going to the fest everyday, I was helping out at night shows. My least favorite shows were not because of the music, oh no. The crowds were out of control which were awesome for the bands. I only had to endure being stepped on, drinks poured on me, shoved, slipping on the floor (in front of the owner of the establishment who did nothing to help me get off my ass) (no I wasn't drunk, the floor was so slick from the rain and spilled drinks). I would totally do it all over again however. I love being able to help the bands out and Jazz Fest brings out some of the coolest and best fans that they have. Both new and old, the fans were out in full force. There were a couple of times that as soon as we walked in the venue, people were surrounding the merch table wanting to buy something. I wouldn't even have time to set up anything yet! This happened with BOTH bands. Ya can't help but be happy for the bands when that happens.

All in all it was a pretty successful Jazz Fest. If we weren't enjoying music, it was hanging out with my awesome new and old friends, finding great food, or getting a cold beer.

I did find myself thinking about next year already so it must mean that I am pretty much almost recovered.

So welcome to the new site/blog. I hope you like it. There are still some things I need to try and fix, like the sidebar doesn't seem to move along into the archives. If anyone wants to help me with the last few things that would be great, because I just can't seem to look at things on here anymore. However I wasn't the one who designed this beautiful and fantastic page. No it wasn't me at all but the wonderful Miss Zoot. She did this, oh maybe 2 years ago or more....and well I am just now getting things done with it. I procrastinate like no other person. At least one project of mine has been done!!

Please let me know if there are any other issues that you see. I will get to a nice long Jazz Fest post soon, for now please enjoy a few pics from the second weekend.

I made it through Jazz Fest. It may not be in one piece. It could be said that I may have killed more than a few brain cells over the past two weeks. I haven't slept much and right now I have been up for 24 hours. I will do my big lowdown on Jazz Fest in a few days, accompanied with some pictures.

Tomorrow I will be out at Wednesday in the Square. I won't be pouring beer this week, but selling some merch for PBS. Come say hi if you are out there!

So I am shooting for Thursday. I will also be putting this post up at my new blog. So look out for it. The site is pretty much ready, I just haven't transferred the old posts from here over to there. I was going to wait until that was all done, but I feel like a good Jazz Fest post at the new site is fitting.

One more item of semi-importance for those of you not Jazz Fested out and are here in town. Bonerama is playing this Friday at the Maple Leaf. You know where to find me.

A day of rest and now we are back at it. But WAIT! some of you may be saying. Jazz Fest isn't starting back up until Thursday. Very true, but that doesn't mean that there isn't fun still happening!! Obviously today I am at work. If all goes according to schedule, Lisa should be arriving here around 2. We are going to meet up at the New Orleans arena around 4. No we aren't lucky enough to have tickets to the Hornets game. However Bonerama is going to be playing the pre-game festivities outside the arena, so might as well go soak up some of the playoff atmosphere!! Tomorrow it will be work again then I will bop on over to Wednesday in the Square where I will be pouring beer for a few hours. Hopefully this week someone will actually give me a break....I killed 5 kegs on my own last week and well...this week is going to be SO much more busy.

Thursday, well Thursday is a special day. I am hoping to see lots of people at the Acura Stage that day. Not just the bands, but the actual people. Bonerama AND PBS on one stage, back to back??? I mean how frickin lucky can one girl get??

Just to mention again if you will be in town, either visiting or living here, don't forget on Friday night that Bonerama will be doing another signing at the Jamie Hayes Gallery from 8-9! Come see the print for yourself and have the guys sign it! :) :)

My Jazz Fest has been so different this year. It has thrown me off a bit. I haven't taken many pictures so far, mainly because of the rain. Two days of rain hasn't made it real pleasant at times. For the sake of music we endure it.

Friday I got out the fest later than planned. I grabbed the only thing that has been customary for starting out the fest, crawfish bread and a Miller Light and headed over to the Fais Do Do stage. Caught a part of the Zydepunks before going over to Congo Square to browse the wares for sale. I kept running into people I know, so before I knew it, it was time to head on over to see Bonerama being interviewed by David Fricke (of Rolling Stone). It was a great interview laced with some music. Hearing the bones blast away the paddock area at the Fairgrounds was just amazing. The sound bounced of the walls and just filled the space up with the brassy ballsy music that is the Bone. Best quote of the whole interview was when Craig said that Mark learned how to dress and do his hair from Harry Connick Jr. Oh and of course when David kinda forgot that Bonerama DID have a guitar player. After the interview I had to check out Robert Plant and Alison Krause. She has the most beautiful voice. Someone said to me later that it reminded them of a mother singing lullabies. Robert? Well come on now. He is Robert Plant.

After that I bid the fest a fond farewell for the evening. I had to head on over the hotel where the manager was staying and count out some merch and get it organized for the evening. First up for the Boneramas was an artist/musician reception in the Quarter. Jamie Hayes is a local artist who has done up a rather funky and fun print for Bonerama. It is being sold at Jamie's gallery and also at the shows. The boys and Jamie signed a bunch of posters and mingled with fans. I sold a few cds and the new t-shirts that have the print on them. The best moment had to have been the one captured in the below pic:

I think George Porter Jr was happy to have one of the prints in his hands. I won't be surprised to see a George one soon. There will be another reception this Friday, May 2nd at the gallery as well. After that it was time to get everyone to Chickie Wah Wah, and blow the joint down. I was designated to sell merch in the little patio area that has just been finished.

I was quite glad the rain held off that evening.

Saturday I started out helping out WWOZ with will call, then made it into the fest just as the rain came down. We stuck it out though. Saw some Jon Cleary, Dr. John, Cowboy Mouth, Robert "Wolfman" Washington and then to the very shortened set for Paul Sanchez.

The picture turned out dark because, well it was DARK out already!! It was pouring and there was thunder and lightning. Paul only played 3 and a half songs. And let me tell you, it was the best 3 and a half songs that I heard all day. Everyone on that stage wanted to play for those fans that stayed and they gave it everything they had. Matt Perrine set the mood, as he came from the dressing room area you could hear him coming down the corridor playing "Singing in the Rain" by the time he got to the stage the crowd was cheering. It was one of the most fantastic musical moments for me. Something so simple. Craig saved us from having to stay out longer at the fest waiting for another ride, he just rocked the world last night. I was able to squeeze in a short nap before heading to the Maple Leaf. Not my most fun night there. I was selling merch out in the back bar area. It as so crowded, I got stepped on, hit in the face (it was an accident) drink poured down my back, and stepped on some more. It kinda sucked. Not the music just the whole atmosphere. It was too crowded for my liking. I didn't end up getting home until after 4:30 this morning. I stayed for about 5 songs of George's set at the end of the night and it was still packed when I left. Not as packed but enough.

This morning I was at the fest again to help out WWOZ, made it in before the rain hit again. I only caught two acts today. Leroy Jones and Gregg Stafford. It was dry in the Economy tent, just the way I liked it. The music was killin and had people second lining through the crowd. You make the best of what you can do. Like Mr. Phluffy did.

I mean no other man I know can pull off that much pink and still be straight. Seriously. I left shortly after Gregg's set to get merch ready for this evening's festivities. Nope no Bonerama tonight. Tonight it is PBS' turn and let me tell you...I am ready to hear some of their funky music. Almost craving it. But not until I catch a nap.

I am sitting here with what is probably my 4th or 5th printout of the Jazz Fest cubes. Going through and marking the acts I want to see. Some stay constant, others are added. Really none go away. Unless I clone myself there is no way I can FULLY enjoy every musical act I want to see. We all know that it will change again anyway. Some people have their cubes laminated. I kinda understand that, and would do it as well but it is a waste of money for me because in the end, it will change. I have two color of highlighters with me this time. It is time to get a bit more serious about my planning. See I am helping out WWOZ on a few days and I need to remove the acts from the time I am working. This weekend I am going to be at the will call booth for a few hours handing out brass passes. Next weekend there will be a few hours spent in the hospitality tent. I obviously won't be making any of the sets in those times. So acts must be removed. *SOB*

It is an almost delicate science really, working out your jazz fest schedule. You want a nice mixture of the bands you know and love, the ones that someone told you about (ya know that one night in the club and they just raved about a certain band?) and for some, it is about seeing the big money makers. Because really when else are you to see Billy Joel for under $50? (providing that you bought your tickets before the price went up)

Tomorrow morning I am shooting to be there in time to see a couple of the first acts. Right away we run into a scheduling conflict. One is a band I love, the other I have heard a few songs on the radio and told you really have to check them out live. As long as I have crawfish bread I can make it through the day.

I was talking to someone yesterday when I realized that the craziness kicks off tomorrow. Not that I don't mind, but this time of year seems to go by in such a lighting pace. Really time goes by when you are having fun. So much happens that I am amazed year after year that I can manage to pack in so much to one day. This year will be no exception. I have once again realized how lucky I am to be here in this city and experience this time of year with all the joy that I can handle. I also realize that there is going to be very minimal sleep for the next few weeks. Let me give you a quick run down on what will be happening.

Tomorrow is the Wednesday in the Square fun. If you can make it out, you should!! Big Sam's Funky Nation is starting the evening out following will be the Dirty Dozen Brass Band. I will be pouring the Abita and dancing. Thursday evening I will be taking in the musical styling of Paul Sanchez and who ever is sitting in with him that night. Now here is where it twists a little on me. Normally on the eve of the fest, George Porter Jr. plays at Southport Hall with the Runnin' Pardners. I don't believe that is going to happen, in fact I believe he is playing with the Trio at the Maple Leaf. Which is fine. Just a bit closer to home and I will still get the dose of George I need before the fest begins. Friday, well Friday is of course the fest. I am not sure what time I will be there, but I will be there and I will be taking in what I can when I can. Most definitely with crawfish bread in one hand and a beer in the other. There are a certain amount of acts I want to see but it always changes right. I will be at the interview that Bonerama is doing with David Fricke, cuz that is just too cool. Friday night Bonerama is kicking it off at Chickie Wah-Wah. Yes it is back. Yes it is awesome, yes Dale rules. Saturday I will be helping out WWOZ at the will call booth for the morning then into the fest I go. Again I will go where the fest takes me. Saturday night Bonerama is at the Maple Leaf. Sunday will repeat the same way, ending with PBS at the Howlin Wolf. Monday will either be a day of rest (work happens also this day) but Instruments Acomin is at Tips and that is always a fun night. Tuesday I do believe will be a rest. Wednesday it is back to Wednesday in the Square and beer pouring. Thursday is of course the big fun day for me. Bonerama AND PBS at the fest. Both are playing that evening as well. PBS is at the Howlin Wolf, Bonerama is at French Quarter Tips. Friday I will be working the Hospitality tent for WWOZ for a few hours at the fest then enjoying my time there. Friday night Bonerama is at Rock-n-Bowl. Saturday more fest, then Bonerama at d.b.a, Sunday is of course the last day of the fest, which I am usually catching my 500th wind at. Sunday night ends it all with PBS at the Howlin Wolf. Then I will collapse. Not to mention friends in town, people at the house, it is so the best time of the year. Hopefully I will see some people out there, please come find me. I will either be dancing or lying on the grass taking a nap, come say hi.

We are three weeks away from Jazz Fest. One week (and the rest of today) away from French Quarter Fest. What I am wondering is if everyone has gone into training yet for these fests? As for myself I do believe I am in prime form for the fests. Yes, I will be missing two day of FQF (SQUEE!! I start working on VDay in a WEEK!!) however if I had been going to those two days as well, I would still be in fine shape. However, one needs to keep up training so I offer these "tools" for your use.

Yesterday started the spring session of Wednesday in the Square. I have once again signed on to be a volunteer, or a taste tester if you will. I am one of the ones pouring the beers. It is a chance to listen to some steller music, drink some beer, eat some fantastic food (yummy Rotolo's!!) and hang out with some pretty awesome folk. I, however did not get to attend yesterday, as I was babysitting. I do that alot when Bonerama is on the road. Help out where I can. But I will be there next week!! And every week until June 18th. Either back at the beer trailers or selling merch. Check out the lineup and come have some fun!!

Coming up this Saturday is sure to be a lot of fun. It is once again time for the Freret St. Festival and is going to have a lot of great music and food. I grabbed this from my weekly Offbeat email since I can't seem to find a website for the fest: Saturday marks the 11th anniversary of the Freret Street Festival, presented by Neighborhood Housing Services of New Orleans. Music starts at 11 a.m. with Jo "Cool" Davis, and over the course of the afternoon, Kermit Ruffins and the Barbeque Swingers, the Soul Rebels, Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes, Fredy Omar, and Sunpie and the Louisiana Sunspots will be among the performers on three stages spread out from Napoleon to Jefferson Avenue. The musical offerings also include "An Afternoon of Jazz" with Troi Bechet, Leah Chase, Phillip Manuel (pictured), Gregory Thompson, Sharon Martin and Pearlie Tyler. The free festival will have artists and food vendors, as well as a home ownership fair.

Also happening this weekend is the Old Algiers Riverfest where yet even more music and fun can be had. This will go on both Saturday and Sunday.

So if you are in the mood for a fun musical filled weekend? It is here. Starting off small, then working your way up to FQF then to JF. Seriously love this town.

Put on the brakes to Mardi Gras for just a second. If you recall in a previous post (to lazy to go and find it) I say that Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest are my favorite holidays, with Jazz Fest coming in just slightly ahead. Guess what was announced today? That is right. The line up for Jazz Fest. Now we knew a few of the headliners since they were announced awhile ago...but people, Stevie Wonder is gonna be here. Billy Joel. Bonerama. Porter Batiste Stoltz. Oh wait....those last two bands are from here, but I am still happy for my boys. As well as for Paul Sanchez and the Rolling Road Show and 101 Runners. Anyone want to get me a brass pass during the next WWOZ fundraiser happening later this spring??? I really really need to purchase my tickets in advance this time, they are going to be $50 a the gate, compared to $40 in advance. Yeah. Need to jump on that. See the following for the day to day acts....

Friday, April 25
Buckwheat Zydeco, Sheryl Crow, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, Burning Spear, Ozomatli with Chali 2na, Lizz Wright, Tab Benoit, Anders Osborne, Big Sam's Funky Nation, Terence Simien & Zydeco Experience, Leo Nocentelli's "Rare Gathering" feat. Bernie Worrell, Doug Wimbish & Will Calhoun, Doyle Bramhall with C.C. Adcock & the Louisiana Marquis, Ellis Marsalis, Paul Porter of the Legendary Christianaires, Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers, Barbara Lynn, Theresa Andersson Group, Banu Gibson & New Orleans Hot Jazz, The Iguanas, The New Orleans Nightcrawlers, Twangorama, Bruce Daigrepont Cajun Band, Zydepunks, Vivaz!, Shamarr Allen, Zion Trinity, Otra, Kim Carson, Moov of Martinique, Kustbandet of Sweden, Original Dixieland Jazz Band, Leah Chase, Kumbuka African Drum and Dance Collective, Rosalie "Lady Tambourine" Washington, Jesse McBride, Bonsoir Catin, J. Monque'D Blues Band, Bamboula 2000, Paky Saavedra's Bandido, Jamil Sharif's New Orleans Jazz Professors, Voices of Distinction, Pastor Sean T. Elder & the Mt. Hermon BC Mass Choir, Creole Wild West and Semolian Warriors Mardi Gras Indians, Joe Hall, Rufus "Rip" Wimberly & the Dreamers, Brice Kapel of the Togo, Amina Figarova Group of The Netherlands, Jonno & Bayou Deville, Andrew Hall's Society Brass Band, Real Untouchables Brass Band, June Gardner, Val & Love Alive Fellowship Choir with the Dimensions of Faith, Teatro Alpargata of Argentina, Family Ties and Big Nine SAPCs, Hazel & the Delta Ramblers, Smitty Dee's Brass Band, McDonogh #35 Gospel Choir, Gregg Martinez, Keep N it Real and Single Ladies SAPCs...
Saturday, April 26
Dr. John, Billy Joel, Keyshia Cole, O.A.R., The Count Basie Orchestra feat. Patti Austin, Cowboy Mouth, Cupid, James Cotton, Jon Cleary & the Absolute Monster Gentlemen, Trinitee 5:7, Wayne Toups & Zydecajun, Walter "Wolfman" Washington & the Roadmasters, Harlem Blues and Jazz Band, The Imagination Movers, Ponderossa Stomp Revue feat. Tammy Lynn, Archie Bell, Roy Head, and Dennis Binder, Big Jay McNeely, Warren Storm w/ Willie Tee & the Cypress Band, NewBirth Brass Band, Astral Project, Davell Crawford Singers, Rosie Ledet & the Zydeco Playboys, DJ Bomshell, Eddie Bo, Benjy Davis Project, Paul Sanchez & the Rolling Road Show, Tricia "Teedy" Boutte & Ytre Suløens Jass-Ensemble of Norway, Mahogany Brass Band, Germaine Bazzle, Bobby Lounge, Tribute to George Lewis feat. Dr. Michael White and Tommy Sancton, Tribute to Wilson "Willie Tee" and Earl Turbinton, Big Chief Peppy & the Golden Arrows, Sonny Bourg, Big Blue Marble, PJ Morton Band, Hadley Castille, Jeremy & the Zydeco Hot Boyz, Po' Henry & Tookie, Rockie Charles & the Stax of Love, Carol Fran, 101 Runners, The Original Last Straws, Tyronne Foster & the Arc Singers, Young Tuxedo Brass Band, Berklee College of Music Jazz Ensemble, Nine Times and Single Men SAPCs, The Electrifying Crown Seekers, Golden Comanche and Chief Iron Horse & the Black Seminole Mardi Gras Indians, Xavier Jazz Ensemble, Connie Jones' Crescent City Jazz Band, Kayla Woodson with Louisiana Lightning, NORD Crescent City Lights Youth Theater, First Emmanuel BC Choir, The Worship Squad, Unstoppable Gospel Creators, NOCCA Jazz Ensemble, The RRAAMS Drum and Dance, Lady Jetsetters, Dumaine Gang and Divine Ladies SAPCs, Red White & Blue Mardi Gras Indians...
Sunday, April 27
Irma Thomas, Tim McGraw, Al Green, Elvis Costello and Allen Toussaint, Cassandra Wilson, Delbert McClinton, Del McCoury, Pete Fountain, Byron Cage with Kim Burrell, Voices of the Wetlands Allstars, Jeremy Davenport, Gal Holiday & the Honky Tonk Revue, Hot 8 Brass Band, Big Chief Monk Boudreaux & the Golden Eagles, Roy Young, BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet, Nicholas Payton, Davell Crawford's New Orleans R & B Orchestra, Jumpin' Johnny Sansone's Harmonica Revue, The Throw Back Jamm feat. Joe Blakk, UNLV, MC T. Tucker, Dolemite, BustDown, and Cheeky Blakk, Rob Wagner and Hamid Drake, New Orleans Klezmer Allstars, Tim Laughlin, Jo "Cool" Davis, Mamadou Diabate of Mali, Little Freddie King, Jambalaya, Leroy Jones, Willis Prudhomme & Zydeco Express, Wilberforce University Choir, Kenny Bill Stinson, Paulette Wright, Golden Star Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Egg Yolk Jubilee, Midnite Disturbers, David Egan, Lars Edegran's New Orleans Ragtime Orchestra, Furious Five, Untouchables and Big Steppers SAPCs, UNO Jazz Ensemble, Shades of Praise, Michael Ward, Paulin Brothers Brass Band, Lionel Ferbos & the Palm Court Jazz Band, Carrollton Hunters and Flaming Arrows Mardi Gras Indians, Gregg Stafford's Jazz Hounds, Nineveh BC Choir, Jeffery Broussard & the Creole Cowboys, AsheSon, VisionQuest Chorale feat. Maurette Brown Clark, N'Fungola Sibo West African Dance Company, Percussion Inc., Patrice Fisher & Arpa feat. Angel Rios of Honduras, Craig Adams & Higher Dimensions of Praise, Olympia Aid, New Look and The First Division SAPCs, Kilts of Many Colours, Percussion Inc., Ninth Ward Navajo and Cherokee Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Colleen Salley...
Thursday, May 1
Randy Newman, Widespread Panic, Tower of Power, Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers, Bettye LaVette, Gene "Duke of Earl" Chandler, Deacon John, Donald Harrison, Carolina Chocolate Drops, Ruby Wilson, Luther Kent & Trickbag, Porter, Batiste, & Stoltz, Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys, C.J. Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band, Johnny Sketch & the Dirty Notes, The Lee Boys, Fredy Omar con su Banda, Maurice Brown, Lafayette Rhythm Devils, Kirk Joseph's Backyard Groove, Creole Zydeco Farmers, Walter Payton & File Gumbo, Music Makers' Relief Foundation's Blues Review featuring Boo Hanks, Macavine Hayes and Eddie Kirkland, Hot Club of New Orleans, Topsy Chapman's Tribute to Dinah Washington, John Ellis feat. Jason Marsalis, New Orleans Rhythm Conspiracy, Philip Manuel's tribute to Nat King Cole, Dukes of Dixieland, Dillard University Jazz Ensemble, Ernie Vincent & the Top Notes, Panorama Jazz Band, Mighty Chariots of Fire, Kerry Grombacher, Codac, Dizzy, Betsy McGovern & the Poor Clares, John Lee & the Heralds of Christ, Mark Braud, Joe Torregano, God's House Westbank Cathedral Choir, Billy Iuso & the Restless Natives, The Melody Clouds, TBC Brass Band, Tony Bazley, Heritage School of Music, Small Souljas Brass Band, The Golden Wings, Red Hawk and Geronimo Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Culu Children's Traditional African Dance Company, Charles Jackson & the Jackson Travelers, Bon Temp Roulez and VIP Ladies SAPCs, Olayella Daste, David & Roselyn, Second Mt. Carmel Gospel Choir, Basin Street Sheiks...
Friday, May 2
Art Neville, Stevie Wonder, John Prine, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Richard Thompson, The John Butler Trio, John Hammond, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Ave., Marva Wright & the BMWs, Terence Blanchard & the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, Papa Grows Funk, Sunpie's Tribute to Clifton Chenier, Zigaboo Modeliste, The Jackson Southernaires, The Lee Boys, Bonerama, The Bad Plus, John Boutte, Soul Rebels, Ingrid Lucia, Coco Robicheaux & Spiritland, Theryl "Houseman" DeClouet, Chubby Carrier, Bluerunners, Wanda Rouzan, Driskill Mountain Boys, Ann Savoy's Sleepless Knights, New Orleans Jazz Vipers feat. Sophie Lee, Stoney B & Grampa Elliot, Gina Forsyth & the Malvinas, Clive Wilson & the New Orleans Serenaders feat. Butch Thompson, New Wave Brass Band, Tuba Woodshed feat. Matt Perrine and Kirk Joseph, Belton Richard & the Musical Aces, Eve's Lucky Planet, Larry Garner with Henry Gray, Ritmo Caribeno, New Orleans Jazz Ramblers, Louisiana Repertory Jazz Ensemble, Betty Winn & One A-Chord, Lyle Henderson & Emmanuel, Kid Simmons' Local International Allstars, Pinettes Brass Band, D.L. Menard & the Louisiana Aces, Legacy - the students of Alvin Batiste, Greater Antioch Gospel Choir, New Orleans Mardi Gras Rhythm Indian Section, Ebenezer BC Radio Choir, Loyola University Jazz Ensemble, Casa Samba, The Smooth Family, Eulenspeigel Puppets of Iowa, Original Big Seven and Original Four SAPCs, McMain High School Gospel Choir, Fi Yi Yi & the Mandingo Warriors, New Orleans School of Circus Arts and ISL, Gospel Inspirations of Boutte, Rosedean Choir of South Africa, Scene Boosters and Old N Nu Fellas SAPCs...
Saturday, May 3
Marcia Ball, Jimmy Buffett, Diana Krall, Steel Pulse, The Roots, Bobby McFerrin and Chick Corea, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Bishop Paul S. Morton Sr. & the Greater St. Stephens Mass Choir, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Henry Butler, Aaron Neville's Gospel Soul, John Mooney & Bluesiana, the subdudes, Rockin' Dopsie & the Zydeco Twisters, New Leviathan Oriental Foxtrot Orchestra, Ruthie Foster, Irvin Mayfield & the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, Savoy Center of Eunice Saturday Cajun Jam, Charmaine Neville, The Dixie Cups, Nathan & the Zydeco Cha-Chas, James Andrews, Dr. Michael White & the Original Liberty Jazz Band feat. Thais Clark, Lillian Boutte, Geno Delafose & French Rockin' Boogie, Stephanie Jordan, War Chief Juan & Young Fire, Pine Leaf Boys, Bionik Brown, Treme Brass Band, New Orleans Blues Serenaders, Spencer Bohren, Don Vappie & the Creole Jazz Serenaders, Roddie Romero & the Hub City Allstars, Lil' Buck Sinegal feat. Rudy Richard, Feufollet, Pinstripe Brass Band, Storyville Stompers Brass Band, Tribute to Max Roach feat. Herlin Riley, Jason Marsalis, and Shannon Powell, Tondrae, Chappy, Danza feat. Evan Christopher and Tom McDermott, Beyond Measure, Lil Nathan & the Zydeco Big Timers, Rumba Buena, Rocks of Harmony, Guitar Lightnin' Lee, St. Joseph the Worker Mass Choir, Big Chief Ke Ke & Comanche Hunters and White Cloud Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Leviticus Gospel Singers, Tulane University Jazz Ensemble, Secondline Jammers, New Generation and Undefeated Divas SAPCs, Trouble Nation and Mohawk Hunters Mardi Gras Hunters, Archdiocese of New Orleans Community Choir, Bester Singers, Donald Lewis, Young Guardians of the Flame, Stephen Foster's Mid City Workshop Alumni Ensemble, Westbank Steppers, Valley of the Silent Men and Pigeon Town Steppers SAPCs, Golden Blade and Wild Tchoupitoulas Mardi Gras Indians...
Sunday, May 4
The Neville Brothers, Santana, Maze feat. Frankie Beverly, The Raconteurs, Dianne Reeves, Galactic, The Radiators, Bela Fleck & Abigail Washburn, The Derek Trucks Band, Keb' Mo', Rebirth Brass Band, Sonny Landreth, Snooks Eaglin, John P. Kee & the New Life Community Choir, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Tribute to Mahalia Jackson feat. Irma Thomas, Marva Wright and Rachelle Richard, Vernel Bagneris: Jelly Roll & Me, Amanda Shaw & the Cute Guys, Ivan Neville & Dumpstaphunk, DJ Captain Charles, Kenny Neal, Sherman Washington & the Zion Harmonizers, Bob French & the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, Elysian Fieldz, The New Orleans Bingo Show!, Benny Grunch & the Bunch, Goldman Thibodeaux & the Lawtell Playboys, Jonathan Batiste, Rotary Downs, George French, Chris Ardoin & Nu Step, Guitar Slim Jr., Grupo Fantasma, Lost Bayou Ramblers, Ovi-G & the Froggies, The Revealers, Pfister Sisters, Salvador Santana Band, William Smith's Tribute to Kid Sheik, Eddie Boh Paris aka Chops, SUBR Jazz Ensemble, Chris Clifton, Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz Ensemble, New Orleans Spiritualettes, Zulu Male Ensemble, The Jazz Jam, Tribute to Tuba Fats, Highsteppers Brass Band, Black Eagles, Hardhead Hunters and Apache Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Lady Rollers and CTC Steppers SAPCs, Guyland Leday with Family & Friends Zydeco Band, Young Traditional New Orleans Brass Band, Watson Memorial Teaching Ministries, Wild Apaches, Young Magnolias and Black Feathers Mardi Gras Indians, Original Prince of Wales and the Original New Orleans Lady Buckjumpers SAPCs, Tornado Brass Band, Judy Stock, Minister Jai Reed...

After a week from hell (at least that is what it seemed like) I was ready for the long weekend. Working an hour late every day for a week is killer. Friday after work I went straight to the movie theater where I saw the new Pirates movie. LOVED it of course. Then it was home for a few minutes before heading out to the Maple Leaf. I hung out there for awhile, Kristen was selling merch for the Radiators. I actually didn't stay late that evening....I just wasn't into it. Saturday we went out the Greek Festival and ate greek food and pastries and listened to Greek music and watched the dancers. We went back to the leaf that night for night two of the Radiators. We had way more fun this night. I was helping out at the door and with the merch, and just hanging out having a good time. It was a late night, a much needed night of fun. Sunday really didn't do much but sleep and watch movies. We went out to Tipitinas for the benefit that was going on, of course Bonerama played. Also the Indigo Girls (who LOVED the boys by the way), one of the dudes from OK Go (Bonerama backed him up) Matt Nathanson and a few others. It was an incredible night of music. The Bones brought it hard that night....even though they were incredibly exhuasted. Yesterday was spent in bed because at some point Sunday night I hurt my back. It felt tight all of Sunday evening and maybe the little bit of dancing I did killed it....I don't know. Yesterday, I could barely walk. Today is better, still sore as hell, but at least I can walk. I didn't take pics at the benefit because I can't find my camera. It was in my purse, and now its not. :( Hopefully it will turn up. I am still awaiting for my computer to be fixed, I am so ready for this month to be over. Other than my niece being born and the end of Jazz Fest this month has sucked major donkey balls.

Trying to get on a more postitive track here, I decided to finish up my Jazz Fest recap. Monday was my only "free" day. I don't think I did anything that day, other than work. I think I got home and collapsed. Although part of me feels like I did something, but I have no clue what. I knew that Tuesday was going to be crazy and it was. Tuesday I went to work at the normal time of 6:30 AM. When it was done, I ran home and cleaned up the house a bit so it looked like a tornado hadn't gone through it. I then ran out to LMF to see Matt Perrine's instore. I then had some time to kill so I had some dinner then went and hung out at the hotel the management team was staying at. Bonerama had a gig that night out at Ray's Boom Boom Room on Frenchmen's street. The guys didn't start until after midnight. It was an interesting gig. Definetly not a bad one, but not one of my favorites.

I slept in a bit the next day since I didn't get home until about 4:30 AM. I didn't think I was going to be that functional. As it was, I got there before 10. As soon as I got off at work, I met Jessica at our normal meeting place for a cocktail. We then wandered on over to the Wednesday in the Square, where Paul Sanchez was the opener. He had a couple of the guys from Bonerama playing with him, it was a really nice set....after it was over Jessica got to try her first boiled crawfish over at Lucy's. We then ran home, and freshened up a bit. We checked out a bit of Eric's set at Chickie Wah-Wah's then it was out to Carrollton Station where the Bonerama Horns were sitting in with Twangorama. That was a fun night!!

Thursday I just couldn't do the work thing. I needed some sleep!! Jessica went to the airport to pick up Mike then they went out the quarter. I caught up on some Tivo. We eventually met up in the quarter, I believe for some instores going on. That was another crazy night if I am recalling correctly! We went from the instores, down to Molly's to see some Storyville Stompers, then to d.b.a to catch some of Grayson Capps set. We then headed out to the Maple Leaf. Of course we did find some time to catch a power nap!!!

Friday it was out for some more koozie fun. I think we ended up being there for about an hour before the deluge of rain came down. We ran for the car and I sat there for a minute deciding do I go into the fest or not. I went back to the hotel with everyone where we relaxed for a bit. Jessica and Mike came to pick me up from there, and we weren't even sure if music was still going on. We knew that they had stopped the bigger stages. We found out that it wasn't for long and we ran out to the grounds were we caught the last of Better Than Ezra, some Amanda Shaw, and ZZ Top. For ZZ Top we were standing in a "lake" that came up mid-shin. By the time they were done the water was all gone!! I then headed out to the Quarter where I met up with some more friends in town, we had a quick bite to eat. I then had to go and clean up a bit before going out to Chickie Wah Wah for another night of the Bone.

Saturday we handed out a few hundred more koozies and then went inside to the fest. I saw the Storyville Stompers. I also attempted to see the Allman Brothers, however the crowd was just toooo insane. I do not do good walking through extremly crowded areas, so I found a patch of grass out by John Mayer's stage. That night I was going to go to Carrollton Station, but after a shower, I decided to just stay home and sleep. The next day was going to be early.

The day had dawned. It was the last day of the fest. I was not handing out koozies this day. In fact I got up at 6:30 or so and was waiting at the gates by 8 AM. It is kinda crazy being there that early....I was with the Jazz Fest die hards. As they started taking out tickets, people started to RUN for the stages. I was going to get a good spot for Harry Connick Jr, so I started to run as well. Once I got to the stage, I realized why they were running. They were trying to get the first spots for in the seating section. They wanted to set up their camps. I however was the first person in the standing room only section. I chose to go center stage. People eventually filled in the area, some of them brought water and other cooling off goodies with them. It was amazingly hot that day. Finally sometime after 6 PM I was rewarded for my day of holding my spot. Harry and the big band hit the stage. It was an amazing set, short but amazing.

I definetly didn't regret anything that day!! It was over way to soon, and we took our sunburned bodies home. I think there was a quick meal and a half hour nap. Then it was time to head out to the Maple Leaf for the last set by the Bonerama boys. I was amazed by the amount of people there!! So many people there that I knew. It was a great way to close out the fest. The boys finished and I got home around 4:30. I promptly fell alsleep for an hour. Then it was time to go to work. What you may say?? I don't have that much vacation time at that point, so I had to go to work. It wasn't actually hard to work that day. There were a few minutes that sucked, but not too horrible. After work, I met up with Jessica and Mike in the Quarter and we went to the LMF for the Paul Sanchez instore. I eventually got to bed about 9 that night. I had been in all sense up for 37 hours. I am still recovering from that. It was the most amazing Jazz Fest.

It has been awhile since my last post. I have been insanely busy at work trying to get all caught up from not only a month of Friday’s off, but we had been holding a bunch of stuff, trying to get a new system up and running, and now? It’s not. So we are back to the old system for now. My laptop at home has died. It will not even boot up. I haven’t had the time to get it sent in before the warranty runs out. That is a goal to get done today. Also a goal is to hopefully do a recap of Jazz Fest. We will see. J

My niece is a week old. She is still beautiful

We are mid-week. I feel like every day has been a week in its own. I am doing so many different things in each day that I can’t believe I did all of it. Take yesterday for example. I was at work at 6:30 AM. Worked until 3, then I ran home and took a 20 minute power nap. I had to get my house cleaned up a bit since my friend Jessica arrives in town today. It was a mad dash to get it done before bolting out the door to go see Matt Perrine play at LMF. It was nice to see a few people I hadn’t gotten the chance to see so far this Jazz Fest. I took some time for some dinner and a walk through the quarter. I then went to go rest at hotel where some friends were staying. Bonerama played at Ray’s Boom Boom Room last night. They started sometime after 2. I ended up staying awake for 24 hours before getting in a quick 4 hour nap. Now I am at work. Meeting with Jessica at our normal spot at 3:30, and a whole new adventure will start. I am not complaining in any means. I wouldn’t trade this for the WORLD. This is one of the reasons I moved here.

For the past month or so I haven’t felt right. You know how you can tell when things aren’t right but you think, “It’s not that bad, I can get through this and figure it out? I don’t need rest? Just need a lot of vitamins’?” I couldn’t seem to kick it. No matter what I did, it just kept creeping up on me. Today I made a self diagnosis. It isn’t that serious, and I am pretty sure treatment will work. It is really hard to say this, but I am 95% sure that I have jazzfestivitis. It is pretty common down here in the Big Easy about this time of year. Some how one person catches it and it just hops from person to person like a wildfire. I have heard that it can hibernate in a few people for almost a year. It tends to get more active right after Mardi Gras, when it unleashes itself on the unsuspecting. I started to feel a bit better after this morning, I sat down with these cubes and started planning out my treatment. It is 3 days on the treatment, 4 days off (very little needed then maybe a small dose or two) then 3 days on again. I hear the best way to really kick the jazzfestivitis in the ass is almost right away on that first day of treatment, to consume something called crawfish bread. Best taken with a can of Miller Lite. This is the most common liquid that is recommended. I think there are a few others, but the choice is pretty limited. I will let you all know how treatment goes in the next few days. I am going to start it on Friday. Wish me luck!

My sockets are finally feeling better. So much better that I am able to eat solid food a bit better now. This is a good thing. I don't have to feel like I am gumming my food anyore. This month has definetly started out a good foot. I had a fantastic weekend just FILLED will fantastic music. Also spending time with some good friends, some friends I haven't seen in awhile, and new friends. Friday night we saw thePaul Sanchez. Sitting in with him was Susan Cowsill also got up and sang a few songs. Good times were had by all.

I know this month is going to FLY by there is SO.MUCH. going on. This week Kristen's parents are visiting. The music that is happening this weekend is out of control (New Orleans Nightcrawlers, Bonerama, Paul Sanchez) the following weekend it is all about French Quarter Fest, the week after that some dear friends get married, a bunch of friends will be in town, and it is Bonerama's cd release party, the next two weekends after that it is Jazz Fest. It will make for the waiting for my niece's arrival so much easier. For me at least. ;) I really don't think my sister will agree with that. Also at this point I am waiting anxiously to hear when baby Perrine is going to make his appearance. I am thinking today.

Jazz Fest 2007 has released its schedule. Not the actual blocks of who is playing when. Just who. I am in heaven. Pure sweet heaven. http://www.nojazzfest.com/ Not only will I get to see Harry but it will be here at Jazz Fest. Bonerama is playing of course. Leroy is playing. John is playing. Cowboy Mouth. Better Than Ezra. I could go on and on about the local acts. National acts? I could care less about Rod Stewart, but ZZ Top??? HELL YEAH!! Joss Stone? Bonnie Raitt? Brad Paisly? (yes he is country I like it, so shut it) I don't know how it is going to be possible to see every band that I want to but I am sure as hell going to try!!

It was more like Lionel Richie....he closed out the Fest. Fats Domino was suppose to, unfortunelty he fell ill. Lionel looks and sounds good! Heard a few tunes by him as we were heading out. I am trying to remember everything I have done in the past week, and I can't really remember. So again with the bullets:

Friday it was koozies and Port o' Call. Then some rest and tivo catch up before heading to Maple Leaf for Bonerama. Merch was set all the way in the back. By the courtyard. Which meant we couldn't see or really hear the band. I think it was a good gig.
Saturday up early and out handing out koozies. I told them all we had to inside by 2:30 for the Storyville Stompers and we were. Probably my favorite day. We spread ourselves out at the Jazz and Heritage stage and didn't leave till Bonerama was done. We then had a few hours to kill until it was time to head to Rock-n-Bowl for the late show. This set was WAY to short. They played 30 mins. 5 songs. I did get to dance a little bit with Craig while Kermit Ruffins played "Lil Liza Jane" so that almost made up for it.
Yesterday it decided to rain right when we got out to do koozies. Wait it was rain....it was a freakin downpour. So while my fellow kooziers went back to their hotel....I went inside and saw an amazing set by John Boutte. Spent the rest of the day wandering from stage to stage. Eating and talking to friends. No gigs last night, so it was to bed semi-early. I am sure I will be going through withdrawls soon. Especially with not many local Bonerama dates in the near future. They will be taken to the road!! YAY for them and other out of town fans....sucky for me. ;) I will stay busy with PBS shows though...so that will be good.

I am too hung over to be trying to form sentences, or thoughts. I really should be in bed. I don't think I fully woke up until about 9:30 this morning. I had a GREAT time last night. Since I seem to be pretty much brain dead and am falling apart at the seems....here is Mark Mullins diary from Jazz Fest last year. Its in the offbeat this month.

Working on Arrangements by Mark Mullins

Jazz Fests are often remembered for the stars that perform them, but behind them are hosts of local musicians that help them shine. Musicians such as Tim Green, Jon Gros, John Fohl, Brian “Breeze” Cayolle, Reynard Poche, and an army of drummers can be spotted almost daily on one stage or another, and their work usually carries over into the night. Last year, one of the busiest musicians was trombone player Mark Mullins. He performed 21 shows in 10 days, and only seven of those were with Bonerama.

Mullins kept a diary last Jazz Fest, often reflecting on the day while driving from gig to gig or heading home in the wee hours of the morning. Now, there’s something slightly nostalgic about his diary as it documents the musical frenzy Jazz Fest had become pre-Katrina, but even with scaled down festivals and the festivities around it, the diary gives insight into the lives of the musicians that are an essential part of Jazz Fest and the city’s music scene.

T-Minus four days and counting: Finally on my way home. After a Zigaboo Modeliste rehearsal, I did some more work on Anders Osborne arrangements. He’s playing with us at Tipitina’s French Quarter on the second Friday, and we’re going to feature him on a lot of stuff that we’ve never played together before. I had a private gig with some friends at the Hilton, so I did some work on them while we were waiting for that gig to start. Still not finished.

T-Minus three days and counting: Four rehearsals today. I start off wit ha trombone summit rehearsal, nine trombones, most of whom are not in Bonerama. This will be our only chance to get together for the Mo’ Fest gig. That will go right into a rehearsal with Bonerama and Anders then after that, a Dave Bartholomew rehearsal. All these at the union hall one after another. We’ve been rehearsing a lot with Dave, almost every week for the last two months, and that’s amazing because he’s such a legend.
It’s really cool going from rehearsal to rehearsal. You’re trying to do whatever it takes to give what’s needed, to be as focused as possible for those few hours that you’re in there, then shifting gears for the next rehearsal. Today there’s going to be a lot of shifting gears, going from rehearsal to rehearsal, trying to fool yourself into thinking you’re prepared for all this.
I might see my kids today.

T-Minus three days and counting: And, if all that weren’t enough, I just picked up another gig. Sunday night with Ivan Neville at Rosie’s. I think it’s 23 gigs now. How do you say no to people like Ivan?

T-Minus two days and counting: I just got through one of the more amazing rehearsal experiences I’ve had in a long time. I rehearsed with George Porter, Jr., for a Running Pardners reunion. It’s been about 10 years since we’ve all played together in the configuration, with Tracy Griffin and Brian Graber, Brint Anderson on guitar and Russell Batiste on drums. Mike Lemmler was on keyboards, and of course, George. It was very, very special, even at the end of a grueling day. It’s like this energy came out of nowhere and it was almost spiritual to get to play some of these songs again. I know that sounds corny.
On my way home now. I was really dreading this day, really stressing about Anders' stuff. I was stressed out in the rehearsals, and everyone in the band could tell. A few things didn’t go quite so well, but I think the gig will be great. A lot of time when these rehearsals don’t go good, the gig is great. Sometimes it’s the other way around. I’m hoping that’s not the case with this George Porter think because tonight was a great rehearsal. My time with George as a young trombone player in New Orleans was very, very influential, a big part of my formative years.

T-Minus one day and counting: Just left the Louisiana Music Factory in-store with Bonerama. You see the music store gigs on your calendar and don’t think too much of them, but man, we have the best times at these things. There were so many people that come out to see the band, a lot of people from out of town. I look out there tonight, there’s David Fricke from Rolling Stone standing there with this huge smile on his face. He’s been so nice to us; he ran up to us after the set and was the first guy that wanted to talk to the band.

T-Minus one day and counting: Thursday’s finished just had a great gig with the Running Pardners reunion.

Jazz Fest, day one: I’m on my way to coordinate two gigs that are really tight together tonight. Bonerama’s at the Maple Leaf and we finish at 11:30 PM and I need to be starting at Preservation Hall at midnight with Stanton [Moore] and Sherik and Robert Walter. I’ve arranged for someone to wait outside the Maple Leaf for me when we’re done, and I’m going to get in the car and go. I’m going to drop my Bonerama gear now at the Leaf then go park in the French Quarter by Preservation Hall so my car will already be there when I’m done. Oh, and Stanton called a last minute rehearsal for 45 minutes ago, so I’m on my way to make that with Skerik. I’m the only idiot that’s not there, but he did only put this together yesterday, so….

Jazz Fest, day one: Just finished a rehearsal with Stanton, Robert Walter, and Skerik. I was two hours late, and as soon as we started playing the first song, they told us we had to stop playing because there was a private party in the other room. We went over a few things real quiet. Stanton calls “Magnolia Triangle,” which is a really tough James Black tune. I hadn’t played it all year long and he wants to do it tonight.

Jazz Fest, day one: We just finished the Maple Leaf, very well attended, but these people have been out at the Fair Grounds all day long so they’re standing there looking at you like everyone needs a Red Bull. It feels like you’re not quite connecting with them, but by the end of the night they’re freaking out and want more.
Now en route to Preservation Hall. We start in about fifteen minutes, and we are by Xavier right now.

Jazz Fest, day one: I made it to the Preservation Hall show four minutes early, then we started late. Preservation Hall is doing “Midnight Preserves,” and it’s an honor to ply in that room. One thing I realized again tonight while playing with Skerik and Stanton – when your improvising, playing with all these different people, it changes the way you play in a good way. Tonight was my first night ever playing with Skerik, and his intuition is killer.

Jazz Fest, day two: Getting ready to do Dave Bartholomew’s set. There are about 10,000 people in his dressing room drinking all of our drinks. That’s okay; it’s Dave Bartholomew. He owns New Orleans music as far as I’m concerned.

Jazz Fest, day two: Wonderful set with Dave Bartholomew and his big band. It never gets old playing with him, the fact that he’s still around, to be able to know him – it’s so awesome. I was lucky enough to have the rest of the afternoon off and was able to take in the Meters Reunion. Off tonight. Unbelievable.

Jazz Fest, day three: It’s family day at the festival. Got my wife Kelly and our boys Michael and Eli aged four and two with us, so it’s quite a handful. But hey, I only have three gigs today, so why not pile it on? Just played with Leigh Harris and Jimmy Robinson at the Jazz Tent, and I’m walking over to Economy Hall, where we start with Kirk Joseph’s tribute to Frog Joseph set in about five minutes. There’s, like, 100 people in the band.

Jazz Fest, day three: On my way to play with Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk down at Rosie’s. Third gig of today, Sunday, the closing day of the first weekend, although I don’t look at it like that because I’ve got three gigs Monday.

Jazz Fest, day three: Okay, just leave me alone and let me play. There comes times during Jazz fest where you just don’t want to deal with any crap and those seem to be the times where it all comes on hard. You might have people calling you all hours of the day to get on a guest list, which most of the time I’m happy to do, but sometimes you can’t do it and it’s like someone handed you this big can of stress to enjoy on top of all the other stuff you’re trying to get through. Sometimes the external distractions can make it tough to play, other times it can fire you up. Musically, this was an awesome gig with Ivan everybody in that band knows how to play space and they know how to fit together.

Monday between Fest weekends: Slept really good last night. I’m always amazed about the power of sleep.

Monday between Fest weekends: Just talked to Tom Drummond with Better Than Ezra. “Mark, we’ve got, uh, two new songs we want you to do with us with the horns.” He’s going to email them to me tonight so I can somehow write tow more arrangements.

Monday between Fest weekends: My soundman just canceled on me for Mo’ Fest, which starts in an hour and a half.

Monday between Fest weekends: Mo’ Fest was a wet one. When I got down there, the sky opened up. I got a soundman that showed up five minutes before, so least I was able to find somebody to mix us. Delfeayo Marsalis was late, and then he wanted to change the set list. Alright, no problem. We got to play, though, and the Trombone’s Summit was really nice. It was pouring down rain, but people stayed.
On my way to Tipitina’s to play with Zigaboo in the “Instruments a-Comin” benefit, I got a call from saxophone player Tim Green. He’s playing with the Radiators, too, and heard that there are some new horn charts that I have to do and he wants to know if we can get together and have a rehearsal on them.

Monday between Fest weekends: Wow, just played instruments-a-Comin’ and everybody was there. I just thought I was playing with Zig, and freakin’ Dr. John is there playing with us. It was great. First time I ever played with him live.

Tuesday between Fest weekends: Spent all day in my office working on arrangements for the Radiators, Better Than Ezra and Zigaboo. I thought it as going to be a pretty easy day, but I got up early and I was in there late.

Wednesday between Fest weekends: Zig’s rehearsal was very, very long. The process is different with every band, but for the most part, you get a work CD, rehearse, and try and remember this stuff. Other tunes might surface, and then if you’re lucky enough to have another rehearsal like we did today, you flesh out everything. All of a sudden, there’s this whole other batch of songs that comes out of nowhere. Many times you have to be prepared to not be prepared.

Jazz Fest, day four: Banu Gibson is on of the more different Jazz Fest sets that I’ll be playing. With her, we play a great mix of ‘30’s and 40’s hot jazz with an excellent small band. After her set at the Fair Grounds, I’ll head over to John Gros’ house to rehearse for tonight’s Carrollton Station gig.

Jazz Fest, day four: It was a really cool night with Anders Osborne and John Gros. We played some of John’s songs, some of Anders’ songs, couple of my songs, and had a great time with Michael Skinkus playing percussion. Great crowd. You could tell that everyone was really there to see it because it was something different, a combination of people that they couldn’t really see anywhere else.
Anyway, finally on my way home just to go catch a few hours of sleep, and then I’m going to be heading right back out to the festival to play with Ivan Neville and Better Than Ezra. I met the floor manager from Widespread Panic and he’s trying to get me to possibly sit in with them tomorrow afternoon.

Jazz Fest, day five: late afternoon: The phone is ringing off the hook. It must be a Bonerama sold-out show today, which, I must say, we’re not very used to. It happened twice this Jazz Fest. Of course, it helps when you’re playing with the funky Meters.
Any show day that has a Bonerama show is times three with all the stuff you got to do. You gotta make sure you do your set list and your guest list. Then you gotta make sure all the music is right, get the stage right, get all your gear set up right. We don’t have a big team, so a lot of that falls on me and or two other people.

Jazz Fest, day five: Today was a rock star day. I got to play with Ivan Neville then Better Than Ezra then tonight at Tip’s French Quarter with Bonerama, and Anders Osborne. It was so many different kinds of excitement. Better Than Ezra – you don’t get excited about stretching out with them; you get excited about their songs, and what you can contribute. Ivan Neville, you get excited about the groove, and the amazing band he has, and what you can contribute to that. It’s always identifying what the best thing is that you can contribute. With Bonerama and Anders, the excitement was him coming into the band and everybody sharing some great energy. You almost really do wish that this could happen all year ‘round, but then we’d probably die.

Jazz Fest, day six: The last 36 hours or so of Jazz Fest is on us. I’m loading-in with Radiators right now at the Rendon Inn, then I’m going to make the Better Than Ezra set at the House of Blues. Then I’m flying back over to the Rendon Inn. I’ll be late getting over to the Rads set but they know……

Jazz Fest, day seven: I just finished the Bonerama set over on the Acura Stage, then had a signing over at the Virgin Tent. We’ve don’t those before and they’re usually pretty good, but today when we got there, there was a line wrapped all the away across the tent. People just kept coming and coming and coming, and we were there over an hour.

Jazz Fest, day seven: Tickets and parking are always a problem for musicians at Jazz Fest. The thinking is that many musicians are playing with someone else, so they’ll get in with the other band. The problem is, everybody thinks that, so you wind up having nothing ,and that happened today. All the stuff that’s in my mind, all these charts and arrangements and rehearsals and schedules and what else do you have to worry about? You’ve got to worry about how you’re going to get into the Fair Grounds to play your biggest show of the year. It incenses me to no end, and it gets s worse every year.
Anyway just getting a breath of air conditioning in my car since we were kicked out of the dressing room at the Acura Stage. I’m trying to get the music sorted out here before I head on over to the Sprint Stage to do this set with the Radiators. We’re doing 10 new horn arrangements that some of the horns have never seen yet, and I just want to make sure I have everything as prepared as can be to get through this.

Jazz Fest, day seven: Just loaded in at the Howlin’ Wolf after playing the Bonerama set at Tipitina’s before the funky Meters. Sold out show. Go in and out of there pretty quickly, and now I’m going to try to lay down for maybe forty minutes before these two sets coming up with Zigaboo.

Jazz Fest, day seven: Backstage at the Howlin’ Wolf. We got through the first set, and my lips are killing me. I haven’t been drinking very much the last few days, but I think it’s time to start. We have one more set to go, and it’s a quarter to five in the morning. Everybody’s pretty crispy and tired up on the stage. Monitors sound terrible, everything is wacked, not a good way to go out . It’s a great band, but everybody is just fried.

Monday, post-Fest: Let me just say that it’s really, really bright outside. My lips don’t hurt anymore, but it’s bright. The sun came up quick. People are banging on the bathroom door while I’m trying to go to the bathroom. I hate that. Happens a lot at Jazz Fest.

I got on the bus this morning still pretty much asleep, the bus pulled away from the curb. I opened my book to start reading when I realized. I forgot to put on deodorant this morning. How in the HELL do you forget to do a thing like that?? Once I got to my stop I walked up to the closest store, a gas station and bought some. I didn't want to run or walk fast, cuz I sure has hell didn't need to start sweating. Its a good thing they had some, cuz its HOT out again today. So I am gonna do some quick recaps on Jazz Fest. Eventually all the pics I have taken will be up, when I have some time. That includes French Quarter Fest. As I have stated before, in the past week and a half, I have been home to sleep, shower, and change clothes. Probably never home for more than 6 to 7 hours at most.

Thursday night, Bonerama instore at Louisiana Music Factory (my crack store) it was packed and a lot of fun. Phil, Donna, Tom and I then went to Southport for the George Porter Jr. and the Runnin Pardners set. The night ended at around 3:30 AM or so. Why did I stay so late? Cuz I was helping. Phil is the manager for both Bonerama and George Porter Jr.
Friday my alarm went off at its normal time of 6:00 AM. I said, "oh HELLLLLL no" turned it off and went back to sleep. I thankfully woke back up at 8:15 and was able to call work and say they wouldn't be seeing me that day. We made it out to the fairgrounds around 12:30 where we (the krewe from the night before) gave out koozies promoting George Porter Jr and Bonerama. We were out there for about 2 hours, right outside the gates. We gave out 300 or more. We then went inside and I immediately headed for the crawfish bread stand where I was in heaven for the 4.5 seconds it took me to consume my food. We found a spot of grass at the Acura stage. I took in 2 songs of Bob Dylan, then headed across the grounds to the Southern Comfort stage where Cowboy Mouth was playing. In an eerie twist, when playing "Hurricane Party" the power went out on that stage. Coincendince? I dunno. All I know is the crowd had a great time, and after a 10 minute delay, we were back to rocking. I don't know if I have still recovered from seeing Fred's ass however. We all met up again and headed out of the grounds....we had to get on the road to Layafette for the Bonerama gig. The club they played at was so much fun. The people working at the bar were so freakin cool and so excited to have the guys there, it was very nice. I was dropped off at the house at 4:30 AM.
Saturday, we had a slower start to the day. The wind was blowing something fierce. There was severe storm warnings for later in the evening. By late evening there were even tornado warnings. Our krewe was down one as Donna decided to pass on the fairgrounds that day. By the time we got to the fairgrounds, around 1:30, Phil decided that we would just go inside and enjoy the music. So that we did. We split up again to hear different music. I went to see Leroy. The guys caught up with me there for a bit. The wind? still blowing. People were covered in dust. Just covered. In your mouth, eyes, ears, hair, if you were smart and had sunscreen on? It stuck to that. It was a gritty day but it didn't stop the music. After Leroy's set, Leroy, Katja and I wandered the grounds for a bit. It was then time to leave. We had a little bit of time, so the guys and I cleaned up a bit, we got a little bit of a peep show from the people in the hotel across the way. Seriously people....you need to make sure the blinds are CLOSED before you get in the showers!! Not just one room, but THREE!! And not one person used the bathrooms/showers but several. We then walked down the street to Howlin Wolf for the Bonerama/PBS (Porter Batiste Stoltz) show. The place was packed and the sets were smokin. Another late night, this time in around 3:30 or so.
Sunday, we got out the fairgrounds at 12:00 and by 2 had given out all the koozies. (good thing more are arriving today or tomorrow) In we went to enjoy Rebirth Brass Band, Ingrid Lucia, and the Meters. Well, Tom didn't. He went to see The Boss. After the fest, we finally for the first time in 3 days had dinner. We were having one meal a day and it was usually something from the fest. Last night? Mother's. It was then off to Republic to see Bonerama and Papa Grows Funk.
That just leaves me at work today. I am gonna miss the Bonerama in store at Tower. That is at 3:00 today. I kinda hate missing it. Even though I have just seen them so many times, and have many more chances in the next week. Last year though we worked the crowd, handing out Bone necklaces....everyone loves those. Oh well. Tonight Bonerama is at Tips for a short set. Tomorrow is a day of rest musically. Then we start all over again on Wednesday. I totally love this time of year and am so glad that it is happening.

The hours are slowly ticking away. I am just 2 hours and 40 minutes away from having another 3 day weekend. And I dont want to work. I so have spring fever. I just want to go lay in the sun and nap. Maybe even clean up a bit around the house and do some laundry. You know the real exciting stuff. However? After tonight? Chaos kicks in for the next 3 weeks and I could not be more excited. French Quarter Fest starts tomorrow, goes all weekend. Next weekend? Jazz Fest. Lots of stuff in between the fests as well. Not to mention the week between Jazz Fest weekends....then I go to NY to see Harry on Broadway....celebrate my mom's birthday.....then I think I will have a few days rest.

Man this is so freakin boring and lame. I apologize. I need to be doing something right now while covering the phones so I don't keep staring at the clock and wishing it would jump to be 3:25 rather than 1:25.

Like there was any doubt. Okay maybe for some....but I had faith.....I am getting some crawfish bread in just over 3 months. YUMMY!!

Jazzfest announces plans for 2006 festival
Quint Davis announces Jazzfest 2006 Photos of the press conference and 2006 poster Producers of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival today announced dates for the 2006 Heritage Fair."Ladies and gentlemen, it's on," proclaimed Quint Davis, producer/director of the springtime musical extravaganza and president of Festival Productions Inc.-New Orleans.The annual festival will take place on its traditional last weekend in April and first weekend in May, April 28 through May 7. The festival will be held Friday-Sunday on each weekend. Missing this year is the Thursday date of the second weekend, typically the least-attended day of the festival.Jazzfest will be held at the New Orleans Fairgrounds -- its usual location -- despite the closing of the facility for the 2005-2006 racing season due to damage caused by Hurricane Katrina.This year, for the first time in the festival's history, Shell Exploration and Production will be listed as a presenting sponsor.The only performer announced Tuesday is New Orleans R&B legend Fats Domino, also the subject of the annual poster, painted this year by James Micholopoulas. The remainder of the lineup will be announced before Mardi Gras, said Davis.Festival Productions Inc. will again this year be working with AEG Live, the nation's second highest-grossing concert promoter. AEG will continue to bankroll the festival, as it did in 2005.Tickets for the 2006 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival are $30 in advance and $40 at the gate. Advance tickets may be purchased through the festival's Web site or TicketMaster.com. Today through February 15, tickets to either Friday date can be purchased at the New Orleans Arena box office for $20. More ticket information, including VIP packages, is available at the festival's Web site.

Just like Christmas, I can't believe NYE is tomorrow. Sunday? A whole new year. Brand Spankin New. Sparkly, Clean, and packed full of possiblities. I know I am not alone in saying I am ready to kick 2005's ass on its way out the door. Not that ALL of 2005 sucked ass. Just a few months right towards the end. In fact the whole year was pretty damn good until August 29th. Just think, only 6 more months till hurricane season starts up again. Instead of the "resolutions" I am going to say the things I am going to be looking forward to in the year 2006:

I turn 31. Not as scary as 30
I get to see Harry Connick Jr. on Broadway in the Pajama Game. Most likely on mom's 50th bday as she wants to go as well.
In less than 2 weeks I am going to be flying to Philly. Will see Marisa and Lisa there, and some boy's in a band called Bonerama. Marisa, Lisa and I will then head to NYC to hook up with the rest of the girls for two nights of fun and craziness with Bonerama.
A tribute show for Brian O'Neill at Tipitina's
The month of Feb packed with Bonerama shows, every Friday night at the Maple Leaf.
Mardi Gras. Mardi Fuckin Gras in New Orleans. With all my crazy friends.
Helping out the Arabi Wrecking Krewe.
Jazz Fest.
French Quarter Fest.
Satchmo Fest.
Hurricane Season
Possible trip back to Cali.
Possible trip to Montana to see some family.
Those are things I KNOW of. But there is much, much more that I am not even aware of yet. 2006? Will you kick 2005's ass???

Jazz Fest has come to a close for another year. I must say that my first fest as an official resident was pretty darn cool....and tiring. I have NO idea how the musicians do it. Going from stage to stage, playing for hours. I mean I am totally wiped and I just enjoyed myself.

I am trying to remember as much as possible...no not because of drinking so much that I don't remember, but because the days blend and everything is like a blur. Some days felt like 2 different days. It was very cool that we would go from seeing Gavin DeGraw to going to see John,Mark, and Anders all in one night. Then BTE and New Orleans Helsinki Connection the next. A wide range of fantastic music. I am so lucky to get to do this.

Friday we left work at noonish. We got out to the fest around 1:00. I had to meet up with all my work homies...as it was a work "outing" I walked over to the Brass Band Stage with Kristy and saw the first song by the New Orleans Nightcrawlers. (Matt had on the most Rock Star shirt EVER) I left Kristy there and went to find out where the work "homebase" was going to be. Luckily they chose the Acura stage. I text msg'd Kristy "have they played Funky Liza yet" and she responded "yes right now" I RAN. okay walked really really fast back to the stage and caught the last half of the song....we stuck around for most of that set. On the way back to the work blanket we grabbed some food and beverages. Creole Bread is my friend. YUMMMMMM I decided I needed to find out about later on that night....the whole merch selling deal. Phil, Donna and I had kinda talked about it, but nothing had been set in stone. I was suppose to let Mark know, so that if I wasn't helping with merch, he would put me on the guest list. I knew that I had to let him know soon...so after talking to Phil and yes, I was helpin, I gave Mark a call. This was right when BTE was starting their first song. Now the night before Mark hadn't mentioned a word about playing with them. He had talked about everyone else. So I didn't think he was gonna be up there. So the message was quite amusing. "Hi Mark...gonna help with merch, don't worry about the guest OH MY GOD YOUR ON THE BIG SCREEN" There was lots of cheering by Kristy and I. Later Mark said something about how funny it was, and "you were so drunk" but we weren't. Just overly excited. BTE sounded great, and played several new tunes that I just LOVED. Can't wait for the new CD. After they were done, we found a shady spot by the Sprint stage and listened to some of Randy Newman's set. We couldn't see him, just hear him. We left soon after that, and taxi'd it back to my work where we hung out for a bit...changed clothes and then headed out for a drink before the show at Tips. The show there was awesome. They played for 2 hours...give or take, Anders was up there for about an hour. We had lots of people coming up and signing up on the mailing list.....not a whole lot was sold, and we didn't stick around for the PGF set to sell as they needed to set up their merch there. We got home about 3, with Phil saying "koozies at 11" HA. I dreamt of thunder and lighting....to wake up to thunder and lighting and a DOWNPOUR. We talked with Donna a few times and decided to make a solid decisions after eating food. The fest was still on...but the idea of standing out in the rain trying to hand out koozies just wasn't appealing. We opted for shopping instead. Then it was back to the house to wait for the BTE show. Kristy and I giggled over the old Harry appearances, how much the guys have changed. Then off we went to HOB. Donna met us outside as Mark was able to get us all 3 in. The show was fun. Donna hadn't heard them much before, and she had a great time. There were some sound issues, but nothing TO major. The show was kinda short as well, because they were doing late night shows at HOB and so the change over must have been hell. All three of us then went over to Donna's for some fun times. Paul gave me trouble again....go figure. Again we were home by 3. Up at 8 and out the door shortly after. We were waiting in line for the gates to open by 9:30. It was quite amusing to see all these people RUNNING for the stages, with their chairs, coolers and other various items flapping around. We got a fairly good spot right up front and enjoyed some fun latin music. The Bonerama set started right at 12:35...and was done by 1:25. But the crowd was totally into it. Most of the people around us knew Bonerama, those that didn't were loving them at the end. And it was a pretty darn big crowd. We then went over to the Virgin tent and giggled like maniacs as we go in the meet and greet line. We were so happy to see so many people in line and many with both CDs in hand. Craig tried to sign body parts...no no Craig!! LOL Then it was off to wander from stage to stage, eating food and just relaxing. Los Lonely Boys put on a fun set as well. We took off from the grounds around 6:15 and chilled at house for about an hour and then off again to Tips for the final show for Bonerama. I was both sad and glad it was over. I was worn out. The Funky Meters set was a lot of fun!!! Bed by 2 this time. Now I am at work....trying to decide if I am going to go to CM show tonight or not. I may also be going to have dinner with Phil and Donna. This weekend I am not moving from my bed.

So after our fairly calm evening on Wed, we decided to turn it up a notch for Thursday. Kinda. ;) I worked all day, and Kristy had a stressful moment or two trying to lock my front door. She finally got it worked out, and then went shopping down Magazine street. At 5:00 she met me outside work and we ran home to change....then we were off. First we walked down to Carrollton Station to find out about tickets for the show that night. The bartender said, "buy them now and they are cheaper" so we did, then we sat down and ate. The crawfish quesadialla was mighty tasty. We then grabbed a cab and went out to Saenger (most likely spelled wrong) theater to catch Gavin DeGraw in concert. Kristy LOVES him. LOVES. LOVES. wants to have his babies kinda love. Of course, so did about 99% of the teenage girls there. We had seats in row H. I hadn't really "heard" much of his music. I have heard a few songs, but never connected the name to the song. He put on a good show and I really enjoyed the music. He didn't start until 9:40 or so, and was done by 11. We thought for sure we had missed the first set at Carrollton Station. As I was told later "you should know better" yeah yeah. They hadnt even started when we got there about 11:20 or so. John, Anders and Mark put on a fantastic show. I knew lots of the songs, and danced up a storm. Highlight was definetly when Mark sang "Heaven's Moon" from the second Mulebone CD. 4:00 AM was the getting home time and here I am 6 hours later....waiting for the next 2 hours to pass so I can go to Jazz Fest. Bonerama at Tips FQ tonight with Papa Grows Funk. Solid.

After work yesterday, while waiting for Carrie to swing by and pick me up at work, I gave Phil a call. To make sure that they had the instore covered for merch. They had decided that Donna would stay at Tower and work the mailing list, and Phil would go on the Cajun Queen to work merch for Funky Meters. I felt a bit better. Adam was going down to Tower, his first real foray since the "incident" both him and I decided that after picking up Kristy from the airport that Carrie, Kristy and I would meet up with Adam and Donna and go to Cafe Maspero's for dinner. Thinking that by the time we got there, the instore would be over. As luck would have it...Kristy called me at 6:18 and said she was just waiting for her luggage. Carrie and I had just left the house!! By the time we pulled up to the airport, Kristy was outside waiting for us. So off we went down to the quarter. We got there around 7:00, and found some free street parking a few blocks away. Adam called when we were walking down and said that they hadn't started yet. When we walked in..."Blackout" (no vocals) was blaring. I saw Roger and Elise, and Carol (whom I know from Donna's) I found Donna and started working the mailing list book with her. Most everyone signed up!! it was awesome. The guys did a "signing" of CDs afterwards. At least Mark, Craig, Matt and Bert did. The other guys had to run right after the set to other gigs. One guy, while signing the mailing list, asked if they had a record deal. "Nope, they produce all their own stuff" "Well I have a record company...." he gave me a card and said to check them out. I gave the card to Mark. After we left there, we had dinner at Cafe Masperos. I think Donna was happy to hang out with some girls for awhile!! We hung out until the boat came back, and she had to go and get Phil. That was the fun for the evening. Tonight we go to Carrollton Station to see John Gros, Mark Mullins and Anders Osborne.

My big weekend plans had been to see Bonerama on Friday night, Leroy Jones at Donna's on Saturday. Some grocery shopping and laundry. Quiet. What did I say last weekend??? Never ever plan. I will get this down soon. Really I will.
As soon as the the bell chimed at 5:00, I yelled "Ya-badabado" and ran out the door. As soon as I got home I collapsed, for a whole 30 mins. The house was stifling hot...it was obvious that no one had been home all day. Turns out Liz had been out partying with Joan Jett the night before (not kidding) and here I had thought my sighting of Billy Idol was cool NOT!
I got to Maple Leaf around 9:30, as the Bones were gonna start at 10. Mark was there already, which was a total shocker for me. He is never that early, he is usually the last one there. I said a quick hello and then went to hang out...Phil and Donna showed up soon with new T-shirts, they are all black, the front side in white writing it says "Got Bone?" and on the back there is a purplish, pinkish, orangish, bone with Bonerama writing in the inside with the web address. I helped them find a spot to set up, and string some of the new necklaces and we chatted about what I had been doing for the guys. Phil mentioned that they were handing out beer koozies, one side says Bone Home, with the web address and the other says Porter's House and George Porter Jr.'s web address. They are free, all the people have to do to get one is sign up for the band's mailing list. He asked if I wanted to help out....I said sure...what the heck. We kind of left it at that. The Bonerama set was WAY WAY WAY to short.....but it was really killer. The place was packed to the rim, which is always nice to see. But it was hot. And I don't think I could have gotten squished up to the sound equiptment anymore. I helped Phil and Donna pack up and fight our way to the front door. After that, I decided NOT to go back in. It was crazy. PGF set was sold out and there were a ton of people milling around outside hoping to get in. I stood out there talking to Craig, Bert and Matt for awhile. Craig introduced me to a really fun guy named Eric (HA) who used to play sax with the Nightcrawlers. He had some funny stories to share. Matt and I chatted for a long time about the theater scene here in town and how he had some "ins" for me. Rock on. I decided soon after to take off and get some sleep. So 1:00 AM and I was in bed. Not bad.
Saturday rolls around and I gave Phil a call, saying if you still want my help, I am here. He called back and said "Yes please" They came and picked me up around 11ish...and away we went to the fairgrounds . I thought at first this was going to be hard, but it really wasn't. People hear the word "Free" and they go BONKERS. They also responded to either "Bonerama" or "George Porter Jr". We stayed out front for about 2 hours....gave away 300 koozies, then headed inside. Got some food, some beer and settled in at the Acura stage for a bit. Soon we headed over to the Sprint Stage and rocked out at the Meters reunion. That was freakin cool. All too soon that was over, and we headed out...we went to Port O Call for some tasty burgers (I am sorry Lisa...I am not doing this on purpose!!!!!) by that time...it was time to go to Donna's. Katja gave me a hard time about having only one beer and leaving after the second set. But I was literally starting to doze off. Paul was very funny, he came in and was saying hi to Katja, and he looked over and said "STACEY" and gave me a huge hug and kiss on the cheek. "OMG you remembered???" "Of course" HA. Total shock. So I took off early from there and was in bed at 1:30 AM. Yesterday we did it all over again....except we saw....um...oh some of Dr. John's set, Wild Magnolias, and Ingrid Lucia. Then dinner was at Cafe Degass. OMG it was yummy. Even though I had been craving Crawfish Bread.....I am pink, pink, and more pink, and can't wait for next weekend. Donna is already talking about next year. Tonight is Mo Fest, a trombone summit is at 7, and Bonerama at 8. Tomorrow night...I sleep. (I think)

It is officially Jazz Fest time here in New Orleans. Its my first official JF as a NOLA resident. I am more than excited. The task at hand will be to get through the next two weeks without; passing out from exhuastion, passing out in general, getting arrested, having extremly sore feet, or a bad sunburn. No it won't be that bad. I am not expecting to go the the actual fest this weekend. Tonight its the instore for Bonerama and Craig's doing his solo thing right before. Tomorrow I am missing Cowboy Mouth since they play so early. :( However Bonerama is at Maple Leaf tomorrow night, opening for Papa Grows Funk, who is recording a live CD tomorrow night. (As well as Monday night) Saturday I may go to Donna's I have not yet decided. Sunday is also up in the air. Monday its another Bonerama gig out by the water....Tuesday sleep, and then Wed Kristy comes to town!! Then it will be go, go, go until Monday. We are still deciding on a few shows....I am excited because next Friday we will get off early to go to JF, and BTE is playing then. So I will at least get to see them there. All this music, I may combust. I love music. There are several, several other people I want to see. Its just that I don't have $35 to spend for each day of the fest. If I had the money when fest packages went on sale I would have been all over that. But since I am always broke...I am only going to the fairgrounds next Friday and next Sunday. Unless I find a sugar daddy. Then I am all over going every day. Crap...that means I have to find him tonight.

Today has been good. I came into work to find a little present on my desk. It was a signed copy of Chicago. A personalized DVD of Chicago from Ms. Catherine Zeta-Jones!! yay me!! We had done a photo shoot with her last week in Miami and Carol, one of the Management Sups had her sign one for me!!! Its pretty dang awesome. Now to just figure out to do with the other copy I have. ;)

That just helped the giddiness factor I have had since last night when I got another email.....Now I want to go to Jazz Fest sooooo bad. I will just have to be good. Even though I was told I "must" come to NOLA....damn. August can't come fast enough.

Tomorrow is Mardi Gras. The last day to just let it all go crazy before Ash Wed. I keep getting phone calls from all my friends who are down there right now. On one hand it is soooo nice and I love it. But on the other hand...it makes me so sad too because I am not there. I keep hearing a lot of "we miss you's" But I think the one that got me was the one this morning..at 2:00 AM or so. Kristy put Mark Mullins on the phone and we talked for a few minutes. After a perv comment of looking down her shirt...(wouldn't be mark with out a comment like that) he said "We all miss you and wish you could be here" then proceeded to say that he would see me tonight at the ball because he knew I wouldn't want to miss that. Well. He was half right. I don't want to miss it. But I am. Oh well. I am going to New Orleans for either FQF or Jazzfest. I have to. I need to be there again even if its just for a few days. I know I shouldn't...but I just have to.