It’s another exciting week of entertainment in New Orleans with tons of live music and cultural events to keep you entertained! Check out our OffBeat Weekly Picks ( July 25 – July 31).

On Thursday, July 25, at 6 p.m., River Eckert will bring “The Booker Sessions” to the Maple Leaf Bar. Eckert is a teenage piano player born and raised in New Orleans, LA. He’s the son of Jake Eckert, who has had a career in the music business for over two decades. He is both a full-time musician (Dirty Dozen Brass Band and New Orleans Suspects) and a Grammy Award-winning recording engineer and producer. From a very young age, River has been immersed in the styles of Professor Longhair, James Booker, Dr. John, Allen Toussaint, Fats Domino and others, River is passionate and dedicated to “carrying the torch” of the New Orleans piano tradition.  You can learn more or purchase tickets here.

Also on Thursday, celebrate the release of Mahmoud Chouki‘s latest CD at Snug Harbor at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. The event features Chouki performing with John Boutté, Detroit Brooks, Jason Marsalis, Herlin Riley, Oscar Rossignoli, Dr. Michael White, Noah Young and special guests. Chouki is a Moroccan master guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, composer and educator currently living in New Orleans. In addition to training and performing around the world, Chouki teaches music at the Lycée Français de la Nouvelle Orléans and is the music curator for monthly programs at the New Orleans Museum of Art. Most recently, he composed the music score for the 2021 Sundance Award winning film, “Ma Belle, Ma Beauty,” directed by New Orleans based filmmaker, Marion Hill. Also in 2021, Chouki was awarded 2020’s “Best Emerging Artist” by OffBeat Magazine’s annual Best of the Beat Awards. This event not only highlights Chouki’s latest work but also celebrates the rich cultural fusion that defines his artistic vision. Learn more or purchase tickets here.

Thursday night fun continues at The Broadside with an evening of electronica featuring Joyfriend (Los Angeles), Jeff in Leather (Omaha), Flesh Heater (Hattiesburg), and Nonlethal Weapons (NOLA). This eclectic indoor concert, presented by NOLA Synth Cult, offers an exciting showcase of synth-driven music from diverse regions and styles. Joyfriend brings the vibrant, electronic sounds of Los Angeles, characterized by lush synths and catchy melodies that have garnered a dedicated following on the West Coast. Jeff in Leather from Omaha adds a distinctive edge with his experimental approach, blending gritty electronic textures with dynamic beats. Flesh Heater from Hattiesburg offers an intense, high-energy performance that combines darkwave influences with powerful, driving rhythms. Nonlethal Weapons will represent New Orleans with their innovative synth compositions, infusing local flavor into their modern electronic soundscapes. You can learn more or purchase tickets here.

Tipitina’s Free Fridays Series continues with an electrifying performance by Erica Falls & Vintage Soul + Zita on July 26 at 8 p.m. Known for her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence, Erica Falls is a celebrated soul artist whose music blends classic soul with modern influences, creating a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. Falls has performed with renowned artists such as Allen Toussaint, Sting and Galactic, and her soulful performances consistently captivate audiences. Vintage Soul, her backing band, adds rich, authentic grooves that perfectly complement her voice. Joining Falls is Zita, another talented act that promises to bring a fresh and vibrant energy to the stage. This free event provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy live music in one of New Orleans’ most legendary venues. Both Falls And Zita have been nominated (and have won) OffBeat Best of The Beat Awards in Music.  Learn more here.

Violinist and entertainer Lindsey Stirling will perform at The Saenger Theatre on Saturday, July 27, at 7:30 PM. As part of her North American Duality 2024 tour. Known for her genre-bending virtuosity on the violin, Stirling seamlessly blends classical, electronic and pop music, creating a sound that is uniquely her own. Her performances are renowned not only for their musical brilliance but also for their visual spectacle, featuring intricate choreography that incorporates elements of ballet, contemporary dance and even aerial acts. Supporting her New Orleans date is the Canadian indie pop band Walk off the Earth, known for their innovative covers and original songs that have garnered them a massive online following. Learn more or purchase tickets here.

Iron and Wine will bring The Light Verse 2024 Tour to the Orpheum Theater on Wednesday, July 31, at 8 p.m. Iron & Wine, the stage name of singer-songwriter Sam Beam, is renowned for his intimate, folk-inspired music that combines poetic lyrics with soothing acoustic melodies. Since his debut in the early 2000s, Beam has captivated audiences with his distinct, hushed vocals and intricate guitar work, crafting songs that evoke deep emotional resonance. His evocative storytelling and rich, layered soundscapes have earned him critical acclaim and a devoted following. Iron & Wine’s music often blends elements of folk, indie and Americana. You can learn more or purchase tickets here.

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Weekly Picks ( July 25 – July 31)