It’s a new year in New Orleans and the city is is off to a wonderful start with live music and cultural events to help keep you entertained. Here’s a look at our OffBeat Weekly Picks (January 2 – 8).
Rio Marsh “Mercy” EP Release Show
Date: Thursday, January 2, 2025
Venue: The Rabbit Hole
Rio Marsh is set to debut her highly anticipated EP, Mercy, with a celebration at The Rabbit Hole. The event will feature live performances from indie punk rockers Dana Ives, known for their raw energy and sharp riffs, alongside DJ Say Trell, whose danceable tracks promise to keep the party alive. More than just a concert, the evening will include tarot readings, a vintage clothing pop-up and an art showcase spotlighting local talent. Learn more or purchase tickets here.
Mahmoud Chouki
Venue: Snug Harbor
Date: Friday, January 3, 2025
Mahmoud Chouki, an acclaimed guitarist and composer, will perform at Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro. Known for his intricate fusion of global musical influences, Chouki’s performances are a journey through diverse cultures, seamlessly blending traditional Middle Eastern sounds with jazz and classical styles. His artistry offers audiences a meditative and deeply expressive experience. Learn more or purchase tickets here.
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weet Crude
Venue: No Dice
Date: Friday, January 3, 2025
Sweet Crude brings their bilingual (English and Louisiana French) anthems to No Dice. With high-energy performances and eclectic instrumentation, Sweet Crude champions the preservation of Louisiana’s cultural heritage while pushing the boundaries of indie music. Their infectious rhythms and vibrant stage presence make every show an unforgettable celebration. Read more or purchase tickets here.
LPO Market Nights: People Museum with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra
Date: Saturday, January 4, 2025
Venue: New Orleans Jazz Market
The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra collaborates with People Museum for a genre-bending evening at the Jazz Market. People Museum’s innovative blend of synth-pop, indie and electronic elements meets the grandeur of orchestral arrangements for a unique fusion of modern sounds with classical instrumentation. You can learn more or purchase your tickets here.
Brad Walker 4tet with Stanton Moore
Date: Sunday, January 5, 2025
Venue: Snug Harbor
Jazz saxophonist Brad Walker teams up with drummer Stanton Moore for two sets at Snug Harbor. Walker’s emotive playing style and modern jazz sensibilities pair perfectly with Moore’s energetic, groove-heavy approach to percussion. Together, they promise a performance rich in improvisation and dynamic interplay. You can learn more or purchase tickets here.
Pink Martini: Featuring China Forbes – 30th Anniversary Tour
Date: Wednesday, January 8, 2025
Venue: Orpheum Theater
They may not be from New Orleans, but their connection to the city is undeniable. The globally celebrated “little orchestra” Pink Martini brings their 30th Anniversary Tour to the Orpheum Theater. Led by vocalist China Forbes, the ensemble is known for their multilingual repertoire that blends classical, jazz and old-fashioned pop. With over two decades of international acclaim, Pink Martini’s performances are an elegant, globe-trotting musical experiences that are well worth a listen. You can learn more or purchase tickets here.
Weekly Picks (January 2 – 8)
