FAN CLUBS

These particular albums presents one of the best cross-sections of Zydeco music ever assembled, with material being supplied by some of the most respected, and best selling recording artist in Louisiana.

So, whether this is your first Zydeco experience or your fiftieth, you'll find more than enough great Louisiana music here to suit your taste.

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Blues Music
The most important musical meaning of "blues" refers to a state of mind. It is generally understood that a blues performer sings or plays to rid himself of "the blues."

The simplicity of blues lyrics gave the blues singer freedom to express emotion while improvising. This structure was supported by a fixed harmonic progression, which all blues performers knew and which they played almost automatically.

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Cajun Music
It doesn't matter if it's played at Fred's Lounge in Mamou or at Carnegie Hall in New York, everyone agrees that Cajun music is one of the hottest things going!

These particular albums presents one of the best cross-sections of Cajun music ever assembled, with material being supplied by some of the most respected, and best selling recording artist in Louisiana.

The more traditional side of Cajun music is presented by the Balfa Brothers and Beausoleil, both of whom have successfully preserved the musical heritage of Louisiana. The more modern sound of Cajun music is represented here by Doug Kershaw and Zachary Richard.

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Jazz Music
It's no secret that jazz music started in the ghettos of New Orleans at the end of the 19th century. In the 1920s jazz moved up river to Chicago and New York as African Americans migrated north away from the south.

The 1930s saw the evolution of swing bands like those lead by Duke Ellington and Count Basie. At the same time great soloists emerged, like Louis Armstrong, Coleman Hawkins and Lester Young.

Yet, one thing is sure: Jazz remains America's only original living art form. Today, its influence envelops the globe. It's expressive and enriching.

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Mardi Gras Music
For more than a dozen years Carnival revelers, visitors to the Crescent City and fans of classic rhythm and blues everywhere have considered Mardi Gras in New Orleans the best party around.

All of the excellent music associated with Mardi Gras couldn't possibly be contained on just one album; therefore, we have collected several Carnival classics and present them to you here!

Featured on Mardi Gras in New Orleans Volume II are the Meters, whose these selections embody the funky, contemporary sound of New Orleans Music. Conversely the Olympia Brass Band's selection represent a more traditional style of music which has always remained popular in New Orleans.

This is a lively sampling of more of the great sounds associated with Carnival. So if you like one album, you're sure to like them all! (Jeff Hannusch)