The “golden age” of New Orleans Rhythm and Blues has been over for some time now, a sad truth epitomized by Fats Domino’s death this past October at 89. But even in these dark days, one local band is on a mission to bring this city back to its R&B roots.

The Catahoulas specialize in playing the lost sounds of the ‘50s and ‘60s, when Dave Bartholomew and Cosimo Matassa ran a recording empire and the Dew Drop Inn was the hottest venue in town. The band features a local lineup of musicians with hefty resumes and impressive musical pedigrees, with bandleader Joshua Gouzy on upright bass and backing vocals, Gerald French on drums and lead vocals, Kevin Louis on trumpet and backing vocals, Earl Bonie on tenor sax, Oliver Bonie on baritone sax and backing vocals, Steve DeTroy on piano and backing vocals, and Bert Cotton on guitar.

Since releasing their first EP, Homegrown, earlier this year, The Catahoulas have been gigging on the Frenchmen St. circuit at classic venues like The Spotted Cat, DBA and the Old U.S. Mint. They also performed at this year’s French Quarter Fest, a major milestone for such a newly formed group.

The Catahoulas will play their first ever show at Maple Leaf Bar (8316 Oak St.) on June 30 at 10 p.m. The event is 21+. Tickets will be available at the door for $10. Don’t miss their first show at an iconic New Orleans staple and stream Homegrown (below) to get a taste for their timeless sound.