It is with much sorrow that I must report the death of photographer Michael P. Smith, one of New Orleans' most talented and revered documentarians of New Orleans music and culture. Mike died last Friday, after a long struggle with an illness that affected his ability to work as a photographer.

Anyone who's gone to Jazz Fest will be able to recognize Mike's work that is regularly displayed all over the Fairgrounds. His work was published in several books, and his lifetime of photographs was acquired by the Historic New Orleans Collection.

Mike will always be remembered by the local music community with love and respect. The Contemporary Arts Center plans a retrospective of his work this spring, "Twenty-Five Jazz Fests." The exhibit is scheduled to open during French Quarter Festival and run through July 2009.

Read Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Jan Ramsey's monthly commentary "Mojo Mouth".

If you haven't done so already, please renew your OffBeat subscription. We want to be able to continue to update you on what's happening down here, y'all!

As always, we appreciate your reading OffBeat, and the Weekly Beat, our e-publication, and welcome your comments on what can make it better.

OffBeat's November "HALLOWEEN AND FALL FESTIVAL" deadline for space reservations is October 17. This issue will be distributed at the upcoming World Cultural Economy Forum in New Orleans beginning October 29.

We have four festivals this weekend, which is simply excessive by any measure . We really should be ashamed of ourselves, and might if the weather didn't promise a great weekend to be outside. And with LSU off and the Saints not playing until Monday night, there's really no excuse not to be out.

The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation presents the second annual Congo Square Rhythms Festival in historic Cong, er, green space at Bayou St. John and Orleans Avenue. Admission is free for this two-day festival that takes place Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. each day. The festival will celebrate New Orleans' rhythm tradition, with everything from Afrobeat drummer Seguenon Kone to hip-hop with Fifth Ward Weebie to funk with Big Sam's Funky Nation and a drum summit featuring Stanton Moore of Galactic, Shannon Powell, Luther Gray, Michael Skinkus, Curtis Pierre of Casa Samba, Alfred "Uganda" Roberts and Kenyatta Simon. Fi Yi Yi, the Wild Mohicans, the White Cloud Hunters and the Yellow Pocahontas will represent the Mardi Gras Indian tradition, and Kermit Ruffins, Cupid, Donald Harrison and Congo Nation, To Be Continued Brass Band and DJ Raj Smoove are just some of the artists performing. For details, go to the foundation Web site.

Also this weekend, The New Orleans Indie Rock Collective presents the NOLA Indie Rock Fest, a three-night event with each night in a different club. It starts Thursday night at the Howlin' Wolf with Theresa Andersson, the City Life and Big Blue Marble. Friday night, Rotary Downs and MyNameIsJohnMichael play the Republic, and Antenna Inn, the Revivalists and the Other Planets perform at One Eyed Jacks Saturday. The shows also commemorate the release of Rock Beats Paper, a compilation of New Orleans indie rock.

The Gretna Heritage Festival starts at 4 p.m.and runs through the weekend. The festival is always an interesting mix of local and classic entertainment, and this year's no different. Galactic, Terrance Simien and Bruce Daigrepont are joined by KC and the Sunshine Band and many more on Friday. Classic rock heroes Blue Oyster Cult and Foghat headline Saturday, along with Allen Toussaint, Theresa Andersson and the Vettes. Sunday, country band Montgomery Gentry and the Radiators are on the main stage, with music throughout the day by Big Blue Marble, Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes, Bonerama, Trombone Shorty and Orleans Ave. , Amanda Shaw and Gal Holiday. Each day there's music on six stages and never fewer than 14 bands.

New Orleans has a second seafood festival that starts Friday on Fulton Street. The New Orleans Seafood Festival will feature food from some of the city's most prominent seafood restaurants. With two stages, it provides a wide variety of music all weekend including the Wiseguys, Rockin' Dopsie, Jr. and headliner Blues Traveler, who plays at 7:30 Friday night.

On Saturday, one stage opens at 12:30 p.m. with Glen David Andrews, then Russell Batiste and Friends, Big Sam's Funky Nation, Rebirth Brass Band at PBS at 8:30. Stage Two presents Country Fried at 11:30 a.m., followed by Christian Serpas and Ghost Town, Vivaz, Paul Sanchez and the Radiators at 7:30. On Sunday, the Soul Rebels start Stage One at 12:30 p.m. followed by Dash Rip Rock and the Boogie Men at 4:30, while Stage Two features the Pine Leaf Boys at 11:30 a.m., then Newsflash and Fleur de Lis at 3:30. Admission is free, and all proceeds benefit the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation.

We were sad to hear of the passing of photographer Michael P. Smith, who died last Friday. Smith's images documenting New Orleans' music culture have shaped how we remember such figures as Professor Longhair and James Booker, and his work photographing second lines and Mardi Gras Indians drew attention to these practices. His photos of early Jazz Fests depict a very different event than we experience today, one that was more firmly rooted in tradition.

Smith's work has been shown around the world and influenced how people view New Orleans, Mardi Gras, the city's musicians and the area's folklife. His photography has shown in the Museum of American History, the International Center for Photography in New York and the LeRoy Neiman Gallery at Columbia University among others, and the Contemporary Arts Center presented a retrospective of Smith's photography in 1999. His accolades are too numerous to list here, and his impact on New Orleans is immense.

There will be a tribute to Smith at Tipitina's Saturday, October 11. There will be a second line tentatively scheduled to form at the H&R Bar at Second and Dryades that will parade to Tip's. It's scheduled to arrive around 3 p. m. for an afternoon of memorializing, reflecting, good times and music. Keep watching "the Weekly Beat" and "Breaking News" at OffBeat.com for details.

JAZZ AT THE SANDBAR

The Jazz at the Sandbar series returns to UNO with performances in the Flambeau Lounge of the University Center on the Lakefront Campus. This Wednesday, trombonist Lucien Barbarin will be accompanied by students in the UNO Jazz Studies program. In the following weeks, the series' schedule is: October 15: pianist Doug Bickel October 22: pianist Henry Butler October 29: singer Kellye Gray November 5: vibraphonist Tim Collins November 12: guitarist Larry Coryell (pictured) November 19: pianist Ellis Marsalis


A CALL FOR MEMBERS

The 6t'9 Social Aid and Pleasure Club is welcoming new members in advance of its October 25 parade through the Sixth, Seventh, Eighth and Ninth wards. The group is meeting Thursday at the Mother-in-Law Lounge from 6 to 9 p.m. Dues are $96 for adults and $48 for kids under 18. For details and information on the club, write parade@6- 9SAPC.org.


YOU GOT GUMBO IN MY SHEPHERD'S PIE!

On Sunday, October 26, the New Orleans Saints play a "home" game against the San Diego Chargers in London. To coincide with the game, AEG Live and Festival Productions, Inc.-New Orleans will present Festival New Orleans, a free, two-day celebration with music by Allen Toussaint, Dr. John, Buckwheat Zydeco, BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet, the Rebirth Brass Band, Marcia Ball, Kermit Ruffins and the Barbeque Swingers, John Mooney and Bluesiana, and many more. The festival will take place October 24 and 25 at The O2, where three stages will also present music by the Anointed Jackson Sisters, New Birth Brass Band, Big Chief Monk Boudreaux, Apache Hunters and Hardhead Hunters Mardi Gras Indian tribes, and Young Men Olympia Untouchables Social Aid and Pleasure Club. For more information, go to the O2 Web site.


HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, BABY!

October 1 marks the four-year anniversary of the opening of Oak Street Cafe. To celebrate this monumentous occasion, the cafe will offeri everyone who visits and mentions the Weekly Beat a special gift: Get a free regular coffee or fountain drink with no purchase necessary through this Friday. The Cafe will offer two- for-one poboys through the month of October to celebrate (dine in only and subject to availability). Live music in the morning featuring Charles Farmer on the piano.


ARE YOU THAT STAR?

The Food Network is starting a talent search for contestants for the fifth season of The Next Food Network Star, arguably a bit of a misnomer since so far, it has only really produced one: Guy Fieri. If you think you've got the cooking chops and personality to be that quasi- celebrity, send a three-minute audition video explaining why you should be the next Food Network star to the network by October 31. Tell them you believe you have the readiness and see how that works for you. For applications and rules, go to FoodNetwork.com. For more information, contact Lisa Krueger at lkrueger@foodnetwork.com.


MUSIC BEFORE MIDNIGHT

We've been told that the start time for Kermit Ruffins' long-standing weekly show at Vaughan's has been moved up from 10:30 to 8:30 p.m. Exactly what that will translate to on KST--Kermit Standard Time--remains to be seen.

Check out our October "Fall Fest" and Voodoo Music Experience issue. Our cover story features an exclusive in-depth conversation with one-time New Orleans resident Trent Reznor (of Nine Inch Nails); the New Orleans Film Festival; BackTalk with Bingo! singer Clint Maedgen; John Boutte's Oyster Pie and much more!

If you are reading this email but you do not subscribe to the print edition to OffBeat we encourage you to purchase a subscription. Doing so helps OffBeat sell advertising to prospective advertisers who are look at our total distribution numbers before making the commitment. The larger the distribution the more likely OffBeat will be able to attract these advertisers.

When you buy an annual subscription you receive 12 issues including the Jazz Fest Bible issue and a free unique compilation CD of Louisiana music. If you like the Weekly Beat, please consider this small investment in our ability to provide information on New Orleans and Louisiana music and culture, and to pu rchase an OffBeat subscription.

Your subscription supports OffBeat and the Weekly Beat.

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Friday night, the Iguanas have a CD-release party at the House of Blues' Parish in honor of their new album, If You Should Ever Fall on Hard Times. The album picks up where Silver Plastic Nine Volt Heart left off, with soul and garage rock elements mixing with the band's Latin roots. For the evening, they'll be joined by Eric Lucero, Anthony Cuccia and Delfeayo Marsalis, and the night will open with a set of Iguanas songs chosen and sung by such friends as Glyn Styler, Johnny Sansone and Alex McMurray.

THERESA ANDERSSON
Oct 5 Mobile AL Bayfest
Oct 9 Little Rock AR Sticky Fingerz
Oct 10 Oxford MS Two Stick Sushi
Oct 12 Nashville TN Belcourt Theater

BEAUSOLEIL AVEC MICHAEL DOUCET
Oct 3 Washington NC Turnage Theater
Oct 10-11 Richmond VA Folk Festival

TAB BENOIT
Oct 3 Columbia MO The District
Oct 4 Louisiana MO Club Mississippi
Oct 10-11 Houma LA Southdown Plantation

BIG AL & THE HEAVYWEIGHTS
Oct 4 Mobile AL Blues Tavern
Oct 10 Gulfport MS The Shed

THE BLUERUNNERS
Oct 3 Hattiesburg MS Live After Five
Oct 4 Shreveport LA Red River Revel
Oct 10 Lafayette LA Blue Moon
Oct 11 Houma LA Voice of the Wetlands
Oct 12 Lafayette LA Festival Acadiens

BONERAMA
Oct 10 Ashville NC Loki Festival

BUCKWHEAT ZYDECO
Oct 3 Chapel Hill NC Univ. of North Carolina
Oct 5 Reston VA Reston Community Center

HENRY BUTLER
Oct 10-11 Columbia SC Martin Luther King Memorial Park

CHUBBY CARRIER & THE BAYOU SWAMP BAND
Oct 4 Greenville SC Cajun Crawl

JON CLEARY & THE ABSOLUTE MONSTER GENTLEMEN
Oct 14 Yokohama JPN Thumbs Up
Oct 15 Shibuya JPN Quattro

COWBOY MOUTH
Oct 1 Dallas TX House Of Blues
Oct 10 San Antonio TX Jack's Patio Bar & Grill

DASH RIP ROCK
Oct 10 Houma LA Voice of the Wetlands
Oct 11 Alexandria LA Renegade Harley

DIRTY DOZEN BRASS BAND
Oct 1-2 Milan ITL Blue Note
Oct 3 Nantes FRA Salle Pannonica
Oct 4 Bensancon FRA Place de la Revolution
Oct 5 Rubigen SWI Muhle Hunzigen
Oct 10 Sioux Falls SD Orpheum Theater
Oct 11 Minneapolis MN The Cabooze
Oct 12-14 Green Bay WI Oneida Casino

DR. JOHN
Oct 3 Solana Beach CA Belly Up Tavern
Oct 4 West Hollywood CA House Of Blues
Oct 5-11 San Diego CA Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise
Oct 12 Phoenix AZ JW Marriott At Desert Ridge

GALACTIC
Oct 8 Athens GA Georgia Theater
Oct 9 Raleigh NC Lincoln Theater
Oct 10 Richmond VA Toad's Place
Oct 11 Philadelphia PA The Fillmore
Oct 12 Washington DC 9:30 Club
Oct 14 Burlington VT Higher Ground
Oct 15 Boston MA Paradise Rock Club

KERRY GROMBACHER
Oct 4 Thermopolis WY Museum Concert
Oct 10 Casper WY ArtCore
Oct 14 Empire CO Original Hard Rock Cafe

THE IGUANAS
Oct 5 Baton Rouge LA Sunday In The Park
Oct 8 Carrboro NC Cat's Cradle
Oct 10 Philadelphia PA World Cafe Live - Downstairs
Oct 11 Vienna VA Barns At Wolf Trap
Oct 12 Mount Vernon NY The Bayou
Oct 15 Northampton MA Iron Horse Music Hall

KELCY MAE
Oct 5 Shreveport LA Red River Revel
Oct 11 Jackson MS OUToberfest

ELLIS MARSALIS
Oct 11 Baltimore MD Shriver Hall

KENNY NEAL
Oct 5-12 San Diego CA Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise

AARON NEVILLE
Oct 4 Bermuda BER National Stadium

PAPA GROWS FUNK
Oct 2 North Adams MA MCLA
Oct 3 Plymouth NH Holderness School
Oct 6 Madison NJ Drew University
Oct 7 Philadelphia PA World CafÈ Live
Oct 8 College Park MD Sante Fe CafÈ
Oct 9 Falls Church VA State Theater
Oct 10 New York NY Sullivan Hall
Oct 11 Baltimore MD 8 x 10

PORTER BATISTE STOLTZ
Oct 11 Asheville NC Loki Music Festival

PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND WITH THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA
Oct 7 Champaign IL University Of Illinois
Oct 8 Columbus OH Palace Theater
Oct 10 Glen Ellyn IL College Of DuPage
Oct 12 Minneapolis MN Orchestra Hall

QUINTRON AND MISS PUSSYCAT
Oct 2 Lafayette LA Blue Moon Saloon
Oct 3 Houston TX Walter's on Washington
Oct 4 Austin TX Emo's
Oct 7 Phoenix AZ The Trunk Space
Oct 8 Tucson AZ Club Congress
Oct 9 San Diego CA The Casbah
Oct 10 Los Angeles CA Echo Plex
Oct 11 San Francisco CA The Independent

THE RADIATORS
Oct 12 Houma LA Southdown Plantation

JIMMY ROBINSON
Oct 3 Covington LA The Green Room
Oct 4 Mobile AL Bay Fest

THE SAVOY-DOUCET CAJUN BAND
Oct 2 Los Angeles CA McCabe's

ALLEN TOUSSAINT
Oct 3 Detroit MI Center for the Performing Arts

Fritzel's has a new booking policy, and it's working to bring more traditional jazz to Bourbon Street. Shows start at 9 p.m., and on Thursday, Fritzel's presents Tom Fischer and Friends. Also on Thursday, Americana artist Cary Hudson plays an early show at d.b.a., followed at 11 by Afrissippi. Alex McMurray's Theater of the Damned plays the Saturn Bar at 8 p.m., and the Mouton Reunion Quartet starts a two-night stand at Snug Harbor. Los Po-Boy-Citos bring Latin soul to CafÈ Lazziza, while Jealous Monk's at the Dragon's Den and the Trio plays the Maple Leaf. Thursday night is Zydeco Night at the Rock 'n' Bowl, this week featuring Lil' Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas. The Harvest the Music Concert Series at Lafayette Square continues Thursday with the Rebirth Brass Band from 5 to 7 p.m.

Friday night, Tipitina's presents the Radiators (pictured) with Gym Neighbors opening. Kermit Ruffins and the Barbecue Swingers are at the Rock 'n' Bowl, the Zydepunks play d.b.a., Gringo do Choro featuring Rick Trolsen is at Dos Jefes, and the Howlin' Wolf presents Southern Whiskey Rebellion, Parabellum, Hammer On, Dry Socket and Big Frank. Theresa Andersson will do an in-store performance at 7 p.m. at Borders.

Saturday night, R&B vocalist Ledisi is at the House of Blues, and John Mooney's at d.b.a. The Balcony Music Club features the Pin Strip Brass Band, while the Maple Leaf has an African Music Summit with Seguenon Kone and Titos Sompa. Tipitina's hosts Staletta Fest, a celebration of the marriage of Stanton and Aletta Moore featuring music by the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, George Porter, Jr. , Morning 40 Federation, Big Sam's Funky Nation and more.

Sunday, the Gospel Brunch returns to the House of Blues at 9:30 a.m. with the Zion Harmonizers. Later that night, blues guitarist Jonny Lang performs. The Nickel-a-Dance Series returns to Ray's Boom Boom Room Sunday from 4 to 7 p.m. with Connie Jones and Tom McDermott's Crescent City Jazz Band. Clarence Johnson III plays two shows at Snug Harbor and the Tipsy Chicks-Lynn Drury and Kim Carson-play d.b.a. Pedal steel wizard David Easley is at the Apple Barrel, indie rock bands Glasgow! and Stella by Starlight are at the Hi Ho Lounge, and Gov't Majik's at the Hookah CafÈ. The Tommy Sancton New Orleans Quartet will perform as part of the Trinity Artist at 5 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church (1329 Jackson Ave.)

Monday night, Tom McDermott and Tim Laughlin play Fritzel's, Ruby Rendrag plays the Circle Bar and Why Are We Building Such a Big Ship? performs at the Dragon's Den with Nick Jania opening. Anxious Sounds' promoter and OffBeat contributor Rob Cambre will curate Zeitgeist's Monday Creative Music Series in October starting Monday with the Kidd Jordan/Brian Quezerque Duo and the Cambre and Cappello reunion with live interaction with Chicago musicians via phone from the Chicago Calling Arts Festival.

Tuesday, Shannon Powell and the Preservation Hall-stars perform at Preservation Hall, while Africa Brass plays the Blue Nile's Open Ears Series.

Wednesday night, the Pfister Sisters are at the Spotted Cat for their usual happy hour show, and the Jonathan Freilich Trio are at the Circle Bar. Indie rock band the Walkmen visit the Republic Wednesday night, touring behind their new album, You & Me, with the City Life opening.

The Iguanas: If You Should Ever Fall On Hard Times (Yep Roc)

September 2, 2008
Theresa Andersson: Hummingbird, Go! (Basin Street Records)

September 9, 2008
Lost Bayou Ramblers: Vermilionaire (Bayou Perdu Records)

September 16, 2008
Marc Broussard: Keep Coming Back (Atlantic)
TriFunctA: Hangin' (Independent)

September 18, 2008
Jean Knight: R&B Queen of New Orleans (Independent)
The Tomatoes: Divisionism (Revolution Blues Music )

September 23, 2008
Cowboy Mouth: Fearless (Valley Entertainment)

September 30, 2008
The Iguanas: If You Should Ever Fall On Hard Times (Yep Roc)
B>Krown-Washington-Batiste: Live at the Maple Leaf (Independent)
Porter Batiste Stoltz: Moodoo: Live at Club Metronome (Independent)

October 14, 2008
Quintron: Too Thirsty for Love (Goner Records)

Released in August 2008
The Balfa Brothers & Nathan Abshie: From Recordings of Ray Alden & Dave Spilkia (Fild Recorders' Collective)
Grayson Capps & the Stumpknockers: Rott 'N' Roll (Hyena)
Leon Chavis and the Zydeco Flames: Holla @ Me (Independent)
Kerry Grombacher: It Sings in the Hi- Line (Independent)
The Fessters: Restraining Disorder (Independent)
Ben Hunter: Traveler (Awareness Records)
Sonny Landreth: From the Reach (Landfall)
Metronome the City with I, Octopus: Metronome the City with I, Octopus (Independent)
Coco Robicheaux: Like I Said, Yeah, U Rite!: The Techneaux Swamp Sessions (Spirtland)
Christian Serpas & Ghost Town: Hoot and Holler: Live From New Orleans (Independent)
Irma Thomas : Simply Grand (Rounder Records)
Amy Trail: Lushious Life (Independent)
Various Artists: Her Name is New Orleans: Listen to the Women (Independent)
Various Artists: Swamp Pop Sweethearts (Jin)
Walter Jr.: The River Club (Gatortone Music)
Chip Wilson: Last Love Song (Independent)
Wayne Toups: The Essential (NBR)

Michael P. Smith, the Voodoo video library, Tony Clifton and more.

(AC) A Cappella; (AU) Acoustic; (BG) Big Band; (BL) Blues; (BU) Bluegrass; (BB) Brass Band; (SH) Cabaret/Show; (KJ) Cajun; (KS) Christian; (CL) Classical; (CR) Classic Rock; (KR) College Rock; (CO) Comedy; (CW) Country; (DN) Dance; (DG) Dance Group; (FE) Folk/Ethnic; (FR) Folk Rock; (FK) Funk; (FS) Fusion; (GG) Girl Group; (GS) Gospel; (MJ) Contemporary Jazz; (TJ) Traditional Jazz; (JV) Jazz, Variety; (LT) Latin; (ME) Metal; (OL) Oldies; (OR) Originals; (PK) Piano, Keyboards; (PP) Pop / Top 40 / Covers; (PR) Modern Rock; (RG) Reggae / World Beat; (RH) Rap / Hip-Hop; (RB) Rhythm & Blues; (RC) Rockabilly; (RR) Rock; (SI) Swing; (SKA) Ska; (SS) Singer Songwriter; (SW) Spoken Word; (TC) Techno / Electronic; (TG) Thrash /Grunge; (VR) Variety; (VF) Vocals, Female; (VM) Vocals, Male; (ZY) Zydeco.

THURSDAY OCTOBER 2
Apple Barrel: Coco Robicheaux & the Swamp Monsters (BL) 8p, Mike Darby Band (BL) 10:30p
Arnaud's Jazz Bistro: the Gumbo Trio (JV) 6:30p
Balcony Music Club: Sketchy Characters (CO) 8p, Fernando Braxton & the Earth Movers (RR) 10p
Blue Nile: DJ T-Roy (RG) 11p, Dave James Peoples Party (upstairs) (BL) 10p
Bombay Club: Phillip Melancon (PK) 9p
CafÈ Beignet: Steamboat Willie Jazz Band (JV) 6p
CafÈ Lazziza: Los Po-Boy-Citos (LT RB) 10p
CafÈ Negril: the Deadly Four (OR) 9:30p
Carousel Lounge (Hotel Monteleone): John Autin (PK) 9p
Checkpoint Charlie: the Fens (RR) 10p
Circle Bar: the Geraniums (RR) 10p
d.b.a.: Cary Hudson (OR) 7p, Afrissippi (OR) 11p
Dos Jefes: Geoff Clapp (JV BL) 9:30p
Dragon's Den: Bassbin Safari feat. DJ Proppa Bear (VR) 10p, Jealous Monk (upstairs) (RH FK) 10p
Fritzel's: Tom Fisher & Friends (TJ) 9p
Funky Pirate: Big Al Carson & the Blues Masters (BL) 8p
Hookah CafÈ: Super Cool DJ Kazu (RB FK) 9p
House of Blues: 10 Years, Earshot, Meriwether (ME) 8p
Howlin' Wolf: New Orleans Indie Rock Festival feat. Theresa Andersson, the City Life and Big Blue Marble (RR) 10p
Kerry Irish Pub: Slewfoot Blues Band (BL) 9p
Lafayette Square:: Rebirth Brass Band (BB) 5p
Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop: Jeff "Snake" Greenberg (PK BL VR) 6p
Louisiana Humanities Center: a listening party for "Jonathan Freilich's Freedom Double-O Naked Klezmer Jazz Latin Boogaloo" (VR) 7p
Maison Bourbon: Jamil Sharif (TJ) 7:30p- 12:15a
Maple Leaf: the Trio (FK) 10p
Margaritaville: Eddie Parrino (RR) 7p
Mid-City Lanes Rock 'n' Bowl: Zydeco Night feat. Lil Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas (ZY) 8:30p
Ogden Museum: Ogden After Hours feat. 19th Street Red (BL) 6p
Old Point Bar: Marc Stone & WestBank Mike (BL) 6:30p, the Tipsy Chicks feat. Lynn Drury and Kim Carson (OR) 9p
On Trois (Ritz Carlton Hotel): George French Trio feat. Doug Belote (JV) 5:15p
One Eyed Jacks: Fast Times '80s Dance Night (PP) 10p
Palm Court Jazz CafÈ: Crescent City Joymakers (JV) 7p
Preservation Hall: Soul Rebels Brass Band (BB) 8p
Rivershack Tavern: John Lisi (BL RR) 7p
Saturn Bar: Alex McMurray's Theater of the Damned (RR) 8p
Snug Harbor: Mouton Reunion Quartet feat. Rick Margitza (MJ) 8 & 10p
Tropical Isle Beach Club: Waylon Thibodeaux (PP) 5p
Tropical Isle Bourbon: Corey Michael (VR) 5p, Debi & the Deacons (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Original: Dwight Breland (PP) 5p, Late as Usual (PP) 9p
Vaughan's: Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers (MJ) 10:30p

FRIDAY OCTOBER 3
Apple Barrel: Kenny Holladay and Rick Westin (BL) 8p, the Hip Shakers (BL) 11p
Arnaud's Jazz Bistro: the Gumbo Trio (JV) 6:30p
Balcony Music Club: Bourbon Cowboys (RR) 10p
Big Top: Schatzy (RR) 5p
Blue Nile: John Ellis Double Wide feat. Jason Marsalis and Brian Coogan (OR) 10p
Bombay Club: Suzanne Yee McKamey & Trio (JV RB) 9p
CafÈ Beignet: Steamboat Willie Jazz Band (JV) 6p
CafÈ Lazziza: TBA 7p, African Experiment 10p
CafÈ Negril: Sista Otis (BL) 7p, Higher Heights (RG) 10:30p
Carousel Lounge (Hotel Monteleone): John Autin (PK) 9p
Checkpoint Charlie: Saluting the Rockies (RR BL) 8p, Zombie Love (RR BL) 10p, Black Snow (RR BL) 11:45p
Circle Bar: Defend New Orleans ActionActionReaction Indie Dance Party (DN) 10p
Creole Queen Paddlewheeler: New Orleans Spice (JV) 7p
Crescent City Brewhouse: New Orleans Streetbeat (JV) 6p
d.b.a.: Hot Club of New Orleans (JV) 6p,the Zydepunks (RR) 10p
Dos Jefes: Gringo do Chorro feat. Rick Trolsen (JV BL) 10p
Dragon's Den: Pure feat. Josh Sense and SiO2 (OR) 10p, Prolific (upstairs) (RH) 10p
Fritzel's: Jamie White & Richard Scott (TJ) 9p
Funky Pirate: Mark & the Pentones (BL) 4p, Big Al Carson & the Blues Masters (RR) 8p
Green Room (Covington): Jimmy Robinson (AU) 7p
Hi Ho Lounge: the Bad Off, Charmed I'm Sure (RR) 10p
Hookah CafÈ: Ladies Night feat. DJ EF Cuttin (RH) 10p
House of Blues (The Parish): Iguanas CD- release party feat. Alex McMurray, Johnny Sansone, Delfeayo Marsalis and more (RR) 10p
House of Blues: Cardinale plus From Legends to Nancy also plus Chase McCloud also plus Horizon (OR) 6:30p
Howlin' Wolf: Southern Whiskey Rebellion, Parabellum, Hammer On, Dry Socket and Big Frank (RR ME) 8p
Kerry Irish Pub: Dave Booda (BL) 5p, Hurricane Refugees (BL) 9p
Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop: Jeff "Snake" Greenberg (PK BL VR) 6p
Le Bon Temps Roule: Rhythm Continuum Opening for the Lowbrow Trio (RR) 11p
Legend's: Groovy 7 (PP) 10p
Maison Bourbon: Dwayne Burnes (TJ) 3:30p- 8:15p, Jamil Sharif (TJ) 8:30p-1:15a
Maple Leaf: the Belleville Outfit (FK) 10p
Margaritaville: Danny T. (KJ) 7p
Market CafÈ: Andy K. and Bobby Love (OR) 5p
Michaul's: Skeeter & the Swamp Pop Band (KJ) 7p
Mid-City Lanes Rock 'n' Bowl: Kermit Ruffins (MJ) 9:30p
Old Point Bar: Dash Rip Rock (RR) 9:30p
On Trois (Ritz Carlton Hotel): George French Trio feat. Doug Belote (JV) 5:15p
Palm Court Jazz CafÈ: Palm Court Jazz Band feat. Thais Clark (JV) 7p
Preservation Hall: Preservation Hall Jazz Masters feat. Leroy Jones (JV) 8p
Republic New Orleans: New Orleans Indie Rock Festival feat. Rotary Downs, MyNameIsJohnMichael (RR) 10:30p
Rivershack Tavern: Tiki & the Rhythm Rockers (BL RR) 9p
Rusty Nail: Clyde Albert Band (OR) 9p
Snug Harbor: Mouton Reunion Quartet feat. Rick Margitza (MJ) 8 & 10p
Southport Hall: Cheeweez (PP) 10p
Steamboat Natchez: Dinner Jazz Cruise feat. Dukes of Dixieland (TJ) 7p
Tipitina's: the Radiators, Gym Neighbors (RR) 10p
Tropical Isle Beach Club: Waylon Thibodeaux (PP) 5p, Willie Locket (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Bourbon: Corey Michael (VR) 5p, Debi & the Deacons (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Original: Al Hebert (PP) 5p, Late as Usual (PP) 9p

SATURDAY OCTOBER 4
Apple Barrel: Sneaky Pete (BL) 8p, Coco Robicheaux & the Swamp Monsters (BL) 11p
Arnaud's Jazz Bistro: the Gumbo Trio (JV) 6:30p
Balcony Music Club: happy house acoustic show (AU) 5:30p, Pinstripe Brass Band (BB) 10:30p
Big Top: ManWitch (RR) 9p
Blue Nile: Tabula Rasa and Analog Missionary (OR) 10p
Bombay Club: Luther Kent & Quartet (RB) 9p
CafÈ Beignet: Steamboat Willie Jazz Band (JV) 6p
CafÈ Lazziza: TBA 7p & 10p
CafÈ Negril: Pepper Jelly Jazz Band (BL) 7p, Smoky Greenwell & the Blues Gnus (BL) 10:30p
Carousel Lounge (Hotel Monteleone): John Autin (PK) 9p
Checkpoint Charlie: Lips & the Trips (RR BL) 7p, T-Bone Stone's 54th B-Day (BL) 10p
Creole Queen Paddlewheeler: New Orleans Spice (JV) 7p
Crescent City Brewhouse: New Orleans Streetbeat (JV) 6p
d.b.a.: John Boutte (JV) 7p, John Mooney (JV) 11p
Dos Jefes: Sunpie & the Louisiana Sunspots (JV BL) 10p
Dragon's Den: Free Bass Society, Outer Bass Reunion Tour (RR) 10p
Fritzel's: Chuck Brackman & Richard Scott (TJ) 9p
Funky Pirate: Mark & the Pentones (BL) 4p, Big Al Carson & the Blues Masters (RR) 8p
Hookah CafÈ: Tondrae Kemp (RB) 10p
House of Blues (The Parish): Pandemic, Sunkissed Barrelabisca, Centerpunch (RR) 10p
House of Blues: Ledisi (RB) 9p
Howlin' Wolf: Music for Matt feat Rebirth Brass Band, Frogs Gone Fishin' and Rogue Heroes (RR) 9:30p
Kerry Irish Pub: call club for early show, Chip Wilson & Friends (BL) 9p
Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop: Jeff "Snake" Greenberg (PK BL VR) 6p
Le Bon Temps Roule: Beaucoup Crasseaux (RR) 11p
Legend's: call club
Maison Bourbon: Dwayne Burnes (TJ) 3:30p- 8:15p, Jamil Sharif (TJ) 8:30p-1:15a
Maple Leaf: African Music Summit feat. Seguenon Kone and Titos Sompa (OR) 10p
Margaritaville: Irving Bannister's All-stars (RB) 4p
Market CafÈ: Andy K. and Bobby Love (OR) 5p
Michaul's: Skeeter & the Swamp Pop Band (KJ) 7p
Mid-City Lanes Rock 'n' Bowl: J.Monque'D (OR) 9:30p
New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park: New Orleans Ragtime Orchestra (JV) 2p
Old Point Bar: Delfeayo Marsalis (MJ) 7p, Bourbon Cowboys (RR) 10p
On Trois (Ritz Carlton Hotel): George French Trio feat. Doug Belote (JV) 5:15p
One Eyed Jacks: New Orleans Indie Rock Festival feat. Antenna Inn, the Other Planets, the Revivalists (RR) 9p
Palm Court Jazz CafÈ: Palm Court Jazz Band feat. Lionel Ferbos (JV) 7p
Preservation Hall: Preservation Hall Jazz Band (JV) 8p
Rivershack Tavern: Wattusi Radio (BL RR) 10p
Snug Harbor: Ed Petersen Quartet feat. Germaine Bazzle (MJ) 8 & 10p, Thelonious Monk Institute Band (MJ) 12a
Southport Hall: Zoso (RR) 10p
Steamboat Natchez: Dinner Jazz Cruise feat. Dukes of Dixieland (TJ) 7p
Tipitina's: Staletta Fest, a celebration of the marriage of Stanton and Aletta Moore feat. Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Rebirth Brass Band, Morning 40 Federation and more (VR) 9p
Tropical Isle Beach Club: Waylon Thibodeaux (PP) 5p, Willie Locket (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Bourbon: Corey Michael (VR) 5p, Debi & the Deacons (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Original: Al Hebert (PP) 1p, Dwight Breland (PP) 5p, Late as Usual (PP) 9p

SUNDAY OCTOBER 5
Abita Springs Trailhead: Grocery Clerks, the Leisure Kings and the Steve Anderson Group 1p
Apple Barrel: Rollin' Hills (BL) 7p, David Easley (BL) 10:30p
Arnaud's Jazz Bistro: the Gumbo Trio (JV) 10:30a & 6:30p
Bombay Club: Phillip Melancon (PK) 9p
Buffa's Lounge: Jazz brunch feat. Some Like it Hot (JV) 11a
CafÈ Beignet: Steamboat Willie Jazz Band (JV) 6p
CafÈ Lazziza: The Cuban Revolution 9p
CafÈ Negril: Smoky Greenwell & the Blues Gnus (BL) 9:30p
Checkpoint Charlie: acoustic open mic feat. Jim Smith (AU) 8p
Circle Bar: Dizzy Pilot (RR) 10p
d.b.a.: Linnzi Zaorski (SI) 6p, the Tipsy Chicks feat. Lynn Drury and Kim Carson (BL) 10p
Dragon's Den: Saaraba (RR) 10p
Fritzel's: Lisa Lynn (TJ) 9p
Funky Pirate: Mark & the Pentones (BL) 4p, Willie Locket (BL) 8p
Hi Ho Lounge: Glasgow!, Stella by Starlight (RR) 10p
Hookah CafÈ: Gov't Majik (RH) 10p
House of Blues: Gospel Brunch (GS) 9:30a, Johnny Lang, Indigenous (BL RR) 8p
Kerry Irish Pub: Mike Darby Band (BL) 9p
Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop: Jeff "Snake" Greenberg (PK BL VR) 6p
Maison Bourbon: Phil Campo (TJ) 2:30p- 7:25p, Jamil Sharif (TJ) 7:30p-12:15a
Maple Leaf: Joe Krown Trio feat. Russell Batiste and Walter "Wolfman" Washington (FK) 10p
Margaritaville: Irving Bannister's All-stars (RB) 4p, Eddie Parrino (RR) 7p
Marigny Brasserie: Pfister Sisters (JV) 11:30a
Market CafÈ: Andy K. and Bobby Love (OR) 5p
Muriel's Jackson Square: jazz brunch feat. Joe Simon (JV) 11a
Old Point Bar: Jesse Moore (RR) 5p
One Eyed Jacks: Fleur de Tease (SH) 8 & 10p
Palm Court Jazz CafÈ: Sunday Night Swingsters feat. Lucien Barbarin (JV) 7p
Preservation Hall: St. Peter All-stars feat. Tom Sancton (JV) 8p
Ray's Room: Nickel-a-Dance feat. Connie Jones and Tom McDermott's Crescent City Jazz Band (JV) 4p
Snug Harbor: Clarence Johnson III Quartet (MJ) 8 & 10p
Spotted Cat: Rites of Swing feat. Yvette Voelker (JV) 4p
Steamboat Natchez: Dinner Jazz Cruise feat. Dukes of Dixieland (TJ) 7p
Tipitina's: Sunday Music Workshop Series (VR) 12:30p, Cajun Fais Do Do feat. Bruce Daigrepont (KJ) 5:30p
Tropical Isle Beach Club: Waylon Thibodeaux (PP) 5p
Tropical Isle Bourbon: Corey Michael (VR) 5p, Debi & the Deacons (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Original: Al Hebert (PP) 9p

MONDAY OCTOBER 6
Apple Barrel: Sam Cammarata and Dominick Grillo (BL) 8p, Butch Trivet (BL) 10:30p
Arnaud's Jazz Bistro: the Gumbo Trio (JV) 6:30p
Bombay Club: Phillip Melancon (PK) 9p
CafÈ Lazziza: The Mario Abney Quartet 9p
CafÈ Negril: open mic super jam (VR OR) 9p
Checkpoint Charlie: Mad Mike (RR BL) 8p
Circle Bar: Ruby Rendrag (RR) 10p
d.b.a.: Rick Trolsen & Gringo do Choro (LT) 10p
Dos Jefes: Joe Krown (MJ) 10:30p
Dragon's Den: Why Are We Building Such a Big Ship?, Nick Jania (RR) 10p
Fritzel's: Tim Laughlin & Tom McDermott (TJ) 9p
Funky Pirate: Willie Locket (BL) 8p
Hi Ho Lounge: Bluegrass Pickin' Party (BU) 8p
Kerry Irish Pub: the Tipsy Chicks feat. Lynn Drury and Kim Carson (BL) 9p
Maison Bourbon: Jamil Sharif (TJ) 7:30p- 12:15a
Maple Leaf: Johnny Sketch & the Dirty Notes (FK RR) 10p
Margaritaville: Brint Anderson (BL) 7p
Preservation Hall: 726 Jazz Band (TJ) 8p
Snug Harbor: Charmaine Neville (MJ) 8 & 10p
Spotted Cat: Jerry Jumonville & the Jump City Band (BL) 6:30p
Tropical Isle Bourbon: Partytime Band (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Original: Bruce Bono (PP) 9p

TUESDAY OCTOBER 7
Apple Barrel: Mike Sklar (BL) 8p, Big Soul (BL) 10:30p
Arnaud's Jazz Bistro: the Gumbo Trio (JV) 6:30p
Blue Nile: Open Ears feat. Africa Brass (BB) 9p
Bombay Club: Phillip Melancon (PK) 9p
CafÈ Lazziza: Mid City Big Band All Stars 9p
CafÈ Negril: Glenn David Andrews (OR) 9:30p
Checkpoint Charlie: Amanda Walker (RR BL) 9p
Circle Bar: Schatzy (RR) 10p
d.b.a.: Twangorama (RR) 10p
Dos Jefes: Tom Hook (JV BL) 9:30p
Dragon's Den: Punk and Metal Night (ME) 10p
Fritzel's: Tom Fisher & Tom McDermott (TJ) 9p
Funky Pirate: Big Al Carson & the Blues Masters (BL) 8p
Hi Ho Lounge: DSB, Sour Vein, Zoroaster, Thou, Hellkontrol (RR) 10p
Hookah CafÈ: Deep House SIN Night feat. DJ Kazu (VR) 9p
Kerry Irish Pub: call club
Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop: Jeff "Snake" Greenberg (PK BL VR) 6p
Maison Bourbon: Phil Campo (TJ) 7:30p- 12:15a
Maple Leaf: Rebirth Brass Band (BB) 10p
Margaritaville: Brint Anderson (BL) 7p
Mid-City Lanes Rock 'n' Bowl: New Orleans Music Night (BB) 8:30p
Old Point Bar: Algiers Open Jazz Jam Session (JV) 8p
Preservation Hall: Shannon Powell & the Preservation Hall-stars (TJ) 8p
Rusty Nail: open mic night feat. Whiskey T of Country Fried (OR) 8p
Snug Harbor: Jesse McBride & the Next Generation (MJ) 8 & 10p
SoFaB (Southern Food & Beverage Museum): Marc Stone (BL) 5 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Southport Hall: live band karaoke (RR) 9p
Tropical Isle Bourbon: Partytime Band (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Original: Dwight Breland (PP) 9p
Voodoo Barbecue: Marc Stone's Voodoo Trio (BL) 6p

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 8
Apple Barrel: Sista Otis (BL) 8p, Mike Hood (BL) 10:30p
Arnaud's Jazz Bistro: the Gumbo Trio (JV) 6:30p
Blue Nile: TriFunctA (FK) 10p
Bombay Club: Phillip Melancon (PK) 9p
CafÈ Lazziza: Mid City Big Band All Stars 9p
CafÈ Negril: World Jazz Project (JV) 9:30p
Carousel Lounge (Hotel Monteleone): John Autin (PK) 9p
Checkpoint Charlie: Kenny Holladay & the Rolling Blackouts (BL) 9p
Circle Bar: the Johnathan Freilich Trio (RR) 10p
Cricket Club: Fredy Omar con su Banda (LT) 9p
d.b.a.: Walter "Wolfman" Washington (BL) 10p
Deckbar & Grille: Big Daddy's Juke Joint Blues Jam feat. Oscar & the Blues Cats (BL) 8p
Dos Jefes: Bob Andrews (JV BL) 9:30p
Dragon's Den: Dancehall Classics feat. DJ T- Roy (RG) 10p
Fritzel's: Chuck Brackman & Barry Foulon (TJ) 9p
Funky Pirate: Big Al Carson & the Blues Masters (BL) 8p
Hi Ho Lounge: Elysuim, Consumed, Sisera, Raum (RR) 10p
Hookah CafÈ: DJ Sosa (LT) 9p
Howlin' Wolf: Green Jelly, Rosemary's Billygoat, the Radioactive Chickenheads and Mandown (RR) 8p
Kerry Irish Pub: Chip Wilson (BL) 9p
Maison Bourbon: Phil Campo (TJ) 7:30p- 12:15a
Maple Leaf: Renard Poche Band (FK) 10p
Margaritaville: Brint Anderson (BL) 7p
Mid-City Lanes Rock 'n' Bowl: Swing Night feat. Joe Krown (SI) 8:30p
One Eyed Jacks: Saviours (RR) 9p
Palm Court Jazz CafÈ: Palm Court Jazz Band feat. Lars Edegran and Topsy Chapman (JV) 7p
Preservation Hall: Carl LeBlanc & the Essential New Orleans Jazz Band (TJ) 8p
Republic New Orleans: the Walkmen, the City Life (RR) 9p
Snug Harbor: Irvin Mayfield & the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra (MJ) 8 & 10p
Spotted Cat: Pfister Sisters (JV) 6:30p
Tropical Isle Bourbon: Partytime Band (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Original: Dwight Breland (PP) 9p

CLASSICAL

OCTOBER 2 & 3
Beethoven No. 2: Carlos Prieto makes his New Orleans debut as cello soloist under the baton under his distinguished son Carlos Miguel. First Baptist New Orleans. 7:30p. (504) 523-6530, www.lpomusic.com.

OCTOBER 5
Southdown Plantation Concert: Enjoy a concert at Southdown Plantation with Gilbert & Sullivan's "Overture to HMS Pinafore," Handel's "Water Music" and Hardy's "Under the Sea" from the Little Mermaid and more. 3p. (504) 523-6530, www.lpomusic.com.

OCTOBER 5-26
Trinity Artist Series: Albinas Prizgintas presents this eclectic concert series every Sunday throughout October at Trinity Church, 1329 Jackson Ave. Check the OffBeat daily listings for scheduled performances. 5p.

CONCERTS

THROUGH OCTOBER 30
Harvest the Music Fall Concert Series: Head to Lafayette Square every Thursday for a concert series to raise awareness and funds to highlight the ongoing crisis of hunger across southern Louisiana. Performances include: Rebirth Brass Band (10/02), Benjy Davis Project (10/09), Bonerama (10/16), the Radiators (10/23) and Bag of Donuts (10/30). 5-7:30p.

OCTOBER 2-30
Ogden After Hours: Visit the Ogden Museum every Thursday evening for live entertainment by a variety of local musicians. Check the OffBeat daily listings for a schedule of performances. 6p. www.ogdenmuseum.org.

OCTOBER 4, 18, 25
Jazz 'n' the Vines: The biweekly music series kicks off with a performance by the Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys (10/04), Wardell Williams & his Blues Show Band (10/18) and the Pfister Sisters (10/25). 6:30p. Pontchartrain Vineyards, Covington. (985) 892-9742, www.pontchartrainvineyards.com.

FESTIVALS

SEPTEMBER 26-OCTOBER 31
Oktoberfest: The Deutches Haus revels in German heritage every Friday and Saturday with live music, dancing, German food and, of course, beer. (504) 522-8014, www.deutscheshaus.org.

OCTOBER 4-5
Congo Square Fest: Not at Congo Square this year, but at the intersection of Orleans Avenue and Bayou St. John. Music from Cupid, Donald Harrison, Dizzy, DJ Jubilee, Kermit Ruffins, Big Sam and many more. Go to www.jazzandheritage.org/congosquare for info..

OCTOBER 3-5
Gretna Heritage Festival: Take trip out to the "best bank" for a great community festival featuring great food, entertainment and performances by the Blue Oyster Cult, Christopher Cross, KC & the Sunshine Band and more. (504) 361-7748, www.gretnafest.com.

OCTOBER 3-5
New Orleans Seafood Festival: Stroll out to Fulton Street for a festival featuring great food and live music by such acts as Blues Traveler, the Radiators, Rockin' Dopsie and more. www.harrahs.com.

OCTOBER 5-26
Angola Prison Rodeo: Head to one of the country's most infamous prisons for a wild rodeo where inmates battle beasts for a shot at glory. You'll also get to buy inmate crafts and listen to an inmate band. Sunday 9a. www.angolarodeo.com.

SPECIAL EVENTS

OCTOBER 4
Art for Art's Sake: The 30th anniversary event features a citywide art crawl with 44 gallery openings, a block party and plenty of fun. 6-9p. (504) 528-3805, www.cacno.org.

OCTOBER 4-25
Gretna Farmer's Market: Head to Gretna every Saturday for a farmer's market featuring food and wine vendors and cooking demonstrations. 8:30a-12:30p. www.gretnala.com.

OCTOBER 7-28
Cinq a Sept: The Southern Food and Beverage Museum features live music, food and drink every Tuesday night from 5-7p. (504) 569-0405, www.southernfood.org. This week, Marc Stone.

THEATER & DANCE

THROUGH OCTOBER 19
Die! Mommy! Die!: The outrageous comic thriller by Charles Busch plays at Le Chat Noir. Fri.- Sat. 8p. Sun. 6p. (504) 581-5812, www.caberetlechatnoir.com.

Saturday night is Capital One's Art for Arts' Sake on Julia Street, the Arts District, and Magazine Street. The 30th annual arts-oriented block party starts at 6 p.m. with gallery openings as well as food and drink on Julia Street. The Contemporary Arts Center will hold the afterparty with Bonerama starting at 9 p.m. Admission is free for members, $10 for non-members.

This weekend, the NOLA Indie Rock Festival takes place at the Howlin' Wolf, the Republic and One Eyed Jacks. OffBeat and the Republic have three pair of tickets to give away for Friday night's show at the Republic with Rotary Downs and MyNameIsJohnMichael. To win, be one of the first three people to send the correct answer to the following question to alexrawls@offbeat.com:

What stage did Rotary Downs play at Jazz Fest this year?

We've received a lot of feedback from our request for slogans for the city of New Orleans to promote music. Here are just a few:

"New Orleans: Come Hear Us"
"New Orleans - Where the beat began and still lives on"
"New Orleans: Where Music Lives"
"New Orleans: Soul in a Bowl"
"New Orleans: Real (genuine) Music for the Heart and Soul!"
"New Orleans: "You ain't heard nothin' yet!"
"New Orleans: Our music feeds your soul"
"New Orleans: Where America Dances to the Music"

Some comments from our readers regarding the proposal to put music on North Rampart Street:

"Hello OffBeat. I am just a fan who loves your magazine very much because you keep the world informed about the wonderful music that comes out of New Orleans. I just want you to know I love your opeions of the city because you are on the mark about the Rampart Street scene."-- Irma Jackson, New Orleans

"I read both the TP article and your rant on Rampart St. Yes, i agree w/ you, you should be pullin' your hair out in frustration. some suggestions on making rampart work....no t-shirt sales, no cheesy tourist knick knack shops.....only live music, no dj......hire two cops to patrol the sidewalk.....pay off whoever needs to be paid off...vote out that Clarkson woman...zone it for restaurant/live music only venues only.....distribute free earplugs to the anti music assholes in the french qtr "--jaxbro, Jacksonville, FL

Hello, Jan. I very much enjoyed this week's "On My Mind." Quote: The Quarter needs more "live jazz, live New Orleans music. I don't mean like the blaring crap that rolls out of the doors of a lot of Bourbon Street establishments. I mean JAZZ." Amen! I love New Orleans. I visit as often as I can. However, that rock and roll bar across the street from Maison Bourbon that drowns out the jazz has been the source of much of my frustration and depression in your great city. Rock and roll, of course, centers on only one emotion: excitement. It is popular and commercially successful because hormone-loaded kids spend the most money on concerts and recordings. Music at Maison Bourbon typically is great during the LOUD parts. However, jazz encompasses a much broader emotional and dynamic range. It really ticks me off when the softer, subtler parts are almost inaudible because of the over-electrified blaring from across the street! There are other examples, but that particular rock and roll bar is the worst offender in my experience! I often have wondered about the legal and ethical sides of this. Are businesses in the Quarter not responsible to respect the rights of their neighboring businesses to conduct their enterprises? Should that rock and roll bar be required to do something to shield their blaring to some extent, so as to allow Maison Bourbon to function? Especially in the place where the best jazz happens and whose identity centers around jazz?--Kim Oren, St. Joseph, Minnesota