Dirty Dozen Brass Band and Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas

Mardi Gras Mambo

Sunday, March 20, 2022 at 8:00pm at SOPAC

Mardi Gras Mambo is the Dirty Dozen Brass Band PLUS Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas - two great NoLa bands in one night!

The Dirty Dozen Brass Band is arguably the most influential ensemble to emerge in New Orleans over the last 25 years. Its sway on the brass band scene has been staggering, spawning bands like the ReBirth, New Birth, Hot 8, Li'l Rascals, Soul Rebels and just about ever other young brass ensemble presently performing. - Offbeat Magazine

Formed in 1977, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band are the pioneers of the modern New Orleans brass band movement, recognized worldwide as an unstoppable musical machine whose name is synonymous with genre bending romps and high octane performances. They have been featured guests both in the studio and on stage with artists including Elvis Costello, Dr. John, Widespread Panic, Modest Mouse, Dave Matthews Band, The Black Crowes and many others.

Nathan Williams plays zydeco, the fast and furious accordion-driven dance music of the Creole people of South Louisiana. With its trademark rubboard percussion, electric guitars and R&B influences, zydeco is one of the most expressive sounds in roots music. Nathan's down-home parables are delivered with surprising musical turns and a distinctive Caribbean lilt that reaches back to the very beginnings of Creole culture in Louisiana.

In the world of contemporary African-American music, roots styles are easily categorized as old music, good for sampling maybe, but not music that relates to the lives of mainstream American people. Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas might make us think twice about this assumption, for here is uplifting new music that remains connected to its place in history. If you haven't heard what's happening in zydeco lately, here's your chance!