With the constant clamor over acceptable decibel levels downing out most of the music on Frenchmen Street these days, a good racket is long overdue. On November 5-6 at Blue Nile the New Orleans International Sound Exchange (N.O.I.S.E.) will bring internationally renowned ad-libbers and local masters of the avant-garde together for a no-holds-barred improvisatory gathering. Dubbed HIP Fest (for Hosting Improvising Performers Festival), the two-night event will showcase vibraphonist Pasquale Mirra, flautist Nicole Mitchell and percussionist (and Monroe, LA native) Hamid Drake alongside New Orleans musicians, as well as together in a trio, in an effort to strengthen the bonds between the global creative music community and the city’s.
HIP Fest 2013 takes place at Blue Nile on November 5-6.
Drake, a well-known face around town and in improvisational circles around the world, is widely regarded as one of the most dynamic, innovative and versatile percussionists to ever bang, beat, pat or tap on anything. In her own regard, Mitchell, who lived in New Orleans for a stint in the ’90s, has taken the art of the improvised flute to new heights. Likewise, Italian vibraphonist Mirra, who has recorded and performed with both Drake and Mitchell, has devoted his talents to the spirit of harmonic synchronicity.
HIP Fest featured artist Hamid Drake at Jazz Fest 2008 (Photo: Aaron Lafont)
Working in conjunction with Blue Nile’s weekly improvisational spotlight, the Open Ears Music Series, HIP Fest features many Open Ears vets on its bill. On Tuesday, November 5, drummer Doug Garrison and saxophonist Aurora Nealand will join Mirra; cellist Helen Gillet and reedist Rex Gregory will join Mitchell; and baritone saxophonist Dan Oestreicher and bassist Jesse Morrow will join Drake. The following night, the Jeff Albert Quartet (saxophonist Ray Moore, drummer Dave Cappello, bassist Morrow and trombonist Albert) and Trapper Keeper (trombonist Rick Trolsen, guitarist Chris Alford, keyboardist Will Thompson and drummer Marcello Benetti) will perform prior to Mirra, Mitchell and Drake taking the stage together.
Tickets to the inaugural HIP Fest are $15 per night or $25 for both nights and will be sold at the gate. Doors open at 9:00 p.m. More information is available at: www.noise-nola.org
