Friday, February 20, 2009

Carnival

Carnival season is upon those of us lucky enough to live in a place where magic and mystery herald in the new year.

For those of you unfamiliar with carnival it begins January 6th and finishes at midnight on Fat Tuesday. For 2009 this is February 24th. During this time over 5 dozen parades will roll through downtown and the surrounding areas. Millions of throws will be caught and treasured. Ladies in elaborate ball gowns will be seen with their dapperly dressed gentlemen making their way to the private balls held by each Krewe.

Most interesting of all there is no coordinating body. Carnival just happens, much like Christmas or Easter. Each Krewe just decides where it will parade and then does it.

My carnival season kicked off this past Sunday night at the House of Blues, New Orleans. My wife and I ate dinner and then headed to Bourbon for a walkabout before returning to The House of Blues to see Hank III and AssJack.

New Orleans was the first stop on their 2009 tour and they rocked the house! There is nothing like hellbilly music played loud and proud. While standing in line we spoke with the Daniel Mason, the banjo players, mother who was following her son on tour. They had driven down from Tenessee for the show. He is only 19 and has been playing for about two years, spoke with Daniel later and was very impressed. Hats off to you on Smoke and Wine!

Before Hank III came on I caught of glimpse of Shelton standing in the shadows of the stage while The Poor Bastards played. I gave him the horns and he shot back the double bird, thank you Hank.

Tonight we are headed out with the kids to see the Krewe of Orpheus ride in Mandeville. No plans yet for Saturday but we will be on Bourbon with friends on Monday (Lundi Gras) and on Canal with the kids for the Krewe of Rex on Tuesday (Mardi Gras).

As a parting shot here is the man himself with Daniel Mason on Smoke and wine, Enjoy..........

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid301941328/bctid6806971001