[URPE] Stepping out in New Orleans!

[kshahyd at UDel.Edu]

Folks,

Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Cha's are a real good band. However, Zydeco music is not from New Orleans as many would claim. There is a distinct difference between Zydeco and New Orleans Brass Band music. 

Zydeco has rural roots from an area west of New Orleans, known as 'Acadiana', a region anchored by the city of Lafayette. Zydeco is of Afro-Creole origin as is, the Brass Band and Second Line traditions of New Orleans but the two don't sound remotely the same. Each tradition also has it's own dance, with Zydeco being more of a two person waltz type dance, and the Second Line being more individual. Zydeco is very, very high tempo music, based from the wash board and the accordian. 

Still all those who attend should have a good time. Zydeco is perhap one of the most enjoyable dance music forms in the world. However, for those of a younger audience, who want to see a live performance from a New Orleans Brass Band, I suggest checking out the club, 'Les Bon Temps Roule' on Magazine street uptown also on Thursday night. It is free to get in and every thursday one of my personal favorite bands, The Soul Rebels, play to a packed crowd. But as I mentioned it is younger crowd, 21 and up. Diverse group really fun if you don't mind a little sweat, bumping and grinding on the dance floor...

Khalil