jazztalk.net

Last Saturday we took an old friend to a Preservation Hall Band concert in Irvine. We've heard the band several times, especially in the dump they inhabit in N.O. We expected to hear the traditional two beat N.O. style jazz. They had a co-star, Allen Toussaint. who joined the ensemble. Well, he brought a completely different feeling. He's a great pianist, composer, producer, raconteur and knows how to connect with an audience. The music was pure New Orleans funk and from the first drum riff by Joe Lastie, Jr. we knew we weren't in for the stuff our grandpas played us. The hall was packed and the audience, which was made up all age groups, completely got into the music which was about as much fun as it can get. The band is made up of top pros. We especially enjoyed 81 year old Charlie Gabriel who played N.O. with a bebop soul.

If they are coming to your town, let a few moths out of your wallet and have a great evening with PHJB.