It’s another exciting week in New Orleans with no shortage of live music and cultural events to enjoy! Check out this week’s OffBeat Weekly Picks (2/01 – 2/07):
Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen take the stage at Maple Leaf Bar on February 2, 2024, starting at 8 p.m. With a fusion of soul, funk and New Orleans rhythm and blues, Jon Cleary, a Grammy-winning pianist, singer and songwriter, along with The Absolute Monster Gentlemen, promise an electrifying performance. Doors open at 7 p.m., tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Learn more or purchase tickets here.
Krewe of Freret presents the fourth annual Shorty Gras at Mardi Gras World on Saturday, February 3 at 6:30 p.m. This event promises a unique blend of Mardi Gras and music festival, mixing magical Carnival spirit with sensational live performances. The Krewe of Freret parade will culminate at Mardi Gras World, where the celebration continues with headlining acts like Nelly, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Dumpstaphunk, and The Soul Rebels along with a special guest appearance by Juvenile. General admission includes Krewe of Freret parade viewing, access to local food trucks, craft beer selection at the bar and more. There are multiple VIP ticket tiers available as well. This 5- hour musical extravaganza should be an unforgettable experience. You can learn more at shortygrasnola.com.
Morning 40 Federation takes the stage at Maple Leaf Bar on Saturday, February 3rd, starting at 11 p.m. Hailing from the Ninth Ward and born out of a drunken quasi-dare in 1997, Morning 40 Federation fuses punk and jazz into a unique musical hybrid. Known for their raucous yet soulful performances, the band has navigated the highs and lows of life, taking breaks but never ceasing to create. Returning in 2016, they showcased a more mature and developed sound. Their shows are often viewed as reunions, not only for far away band members but for the audience members who sing along to their favorite songs was well. Tickets are priced at $20 in advance and $25 at the door. You can learn more or purchase tickets here.
Tipitina’s presents Galactic featuring Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph on Saturday, February 3 for an evening of funk, pop, rock, and soul. With an extensive history and numerous accolades, including collaborations with artists like Macy Gray and performances at major festivals, Galactic remains a force in the contemporary jazz and funk scene and has not only survived but continued to thrive through 25 years of musical evolution. Joining forces with the powerhouse vocals of Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph, Galactic continues to captivate the audience with their musical exploration. The doors open at 9 p.m., tickets are $32.00 and are available here.
Also on Saturday, February 3 at 8 p.m. is The Apocalypse Ball: A Night of Mesmerizing Madness with a Purpose, where reality bends, and a better world takes shape at 5523 St. Claude Avenue inside the old Family Dollar store. More than just another party, this event is a fundraiser for LHA’s Clean Water Project, dedicated to providing clean, life-sustaining water to tens of thousands in India. The event features interactive booths, live music featuring Sweet Crude, Helen Gillet, Chris Christy Quintet, DJ Mic Phedusha, and KLYPH with captivating performers throughout the night. This immersive experience promises to delight and entertain. The theme this year is “Optical Disillusions” and costumes are mandatory. Purchase your tickets here.
The Second Annual International Clash Day, a celebration honoring the iconic band The Clash and the spirit of rebellion and unity they represent, takes place on Monday. February 5 at Chickie Wah Wah. The evening features Radio Clash Allstars: Papa Mali, Alex McMurray, Rene Coman, Eric Bolivar and Glenn Hartman. Special guests adding to the electric atmosphere include CC Adcock, Quintron, Alvin Youngblood Hart, Mark Mullins, Louque, Rob Hudak, Lynn Drury, Jenn Howard, Dominic Minix and more. There will also be DJ sets to keep the vibe alive between performers. You must be 21 and over to attend. Tickets are $50 in advance, or $60 at the door. Doors open at 5 p.m. and performers start at 8 p.m. You can learn more or purchase tickets here.
The Instigation Festival, now in its ninth year, is set to immerse audiences in a three-day celebration of improvised musical collaborations from Monday, February 5 through Wednesday, February 7 with over 15 performers from Chicago and New Orleans. The festival, known for its genre-defying spirit, will be centered around the innovative project “The Separatist Party” led by Chicago legend Mike Reed. This cross-genre ensemble includes Marvin Tate (vocals, poetry), Ben LaMar Gay (cornet, voice, electronics), and the ambient pioneers Bitchin Bajas (Rob Frye, Cooper Crain, Dan Quinlivan), performing with a diverse array of New Orleans talents such as Helen Gillet, Sasha Masakowski, James Singleton, Rex Gregory, and many more. The event spans multiple venues and promises unforgettable performances. Learn more at Instigationfestival.com.