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 No Doubt |
 Macy Gray |
 Alison Krauss and Union Station |
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Review and photos by Mary Andrews Locals Day Thursday produced many non-local entertainers as well as great local finds. The Acura Stage started the day with the New York based band, Tauk. This band played a crazy good electro-jazz funk set for fans to savor. Their rendition of the Beatles' "I Want You" was a most creative version of the song.Local musician, Shamarr Allen and the Underdawgs got people dancing with his early set at the Congo Stage. Shamarr is the recent Offbeat Magazine award winner for best trumpeter of the year. The rapper, trumpet player was joined on stage by 'uncle' Paul Sanchez for a song. This was a goodtime set that got the crowd dancing and singing along. Bonarama's set at the Acura Stage was a family affair bringing in two of the members young sons to augment the brass band with trombone and guitar. This is how it is done in New Orleans by starting their musical careers at a very young age. Their rousing horns are some of the best in the business. The Word was up next with their all-star mix of musicians featuring Robert Randolph on steel guitar, Luther and Cody Dickinson, Chris Chew on Bass, and John Medeski on keyboards. This was a gospel jam band at its best. Randolph had a cast on his right hand, but his fingers were left exposed so he could still pick and play like the master he has proved himself to be. Guest vocalist Tricia "Sista Teedy" Boutte provided some righteous boogie. The Gentilly Stage became the country and bluegrass stage after local Amada Shaw finished her energetic set. Sturgill Simpson gave fans a great dose of traditional country music. In this day, it is easy to forget that great traditional country music still exists. His hard driving voice is very reminiscent of Waylon Jennings. This singer is surely on the rise. 
Alison Krauss and Union Station closed the Gentilly with a host of fans to hear here unique bluegrass and country sounds. This band is nothing short of impeccable. Alison Krauss' vocals were crystal-clear, although the sound was not the best in the rear areas of the stage.On Friday, 40,000 people gathered around the Acura stage to greet No Doubt. The talent leading to No Doubt was absolute first class. Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes started the day with more of a jazz groove than funk. These are local classically trained musicians who blend music genres and they delivered with aplomb. Paloma Faith and her crew transformed the mood with a sense of humor as well as great pop music from across the pond. She had a 'Debbie Harry' look, but that's where the resemblance ended. She is England's number one female vocalist this year, yet relatively unknown in the states. She proved she could deliver pop, soul, and jazz. The outspoken singer rallied the crowd to request a song she collaborated with Pharrell Williams, "Just Can't Rely On You," to be released as a single. She ended her set with a song she thought would be familiar to the audience, Tina Turner's "River Deep, Mountain High." Faith's performance was a breath of fresh air! Galactic and Macy Gray are recording together and brought their magic to Jazz Fest. Macy Gray was determined to get the crowd on its feet dancing and singing. She was not going to take no for an answer. Her electrified hair, wild look and distinctive voice added depth to her fun, showman persona and created an unforgettable set with Galactic. No Doubt closed out the day with as much energy as any band could muster. Front woman, Gwen Stefani exploded on stage to entertain and eager crowd. Hits performed included "Tragic Kingdom," "Don't Speak," "Just A Girl," "Sunday Morning," and "Excuse Me Mr." Gwen Stefani, now 45, has been building a successful solo career. Most notably she had a tenor as a 'Voice' judge. Her flawless beauty does not project her years. She became known as the show's stylist that seems to have had an effect on the whole band. Stay tuned for more Jazz Fest coverage during the coming days. |
 No Doubt |
 No Doubt |
 No Doubt |
 Macy Gray |
 No Doubt |
 Macy Gray |
 Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes |
 Alison Krauss and Union Station |
 Alison Krauss and Union Station |
 Alison Krauss and Union Station |
 Paloma Faith |
 Paloma Faith |
 Sturgill Simpson |
 Paloma Faith |
 Sturgill Simpson |
 Robert Randolph |
 Amada Shaw |
 The Word |
 The Word |
 Shamarr Allen and the Underdawgs |
 Shamarr Allen and the Underdawgs |
 Bonarama |