The Music, Video and Book pages are organized as follows:

(Note:   Floyd's Record Shop in Ville Platte, LA. , founded in 1956,  is Louisiana's oldest record store and specializes in Cajun, zydeco and Swamp Pop music, as well as carries many videos, books, instruments and CZ souvenirs.  Their catalog is a great place to start.  Call 1-800-738-8668  or go to www.floydsrecords.com to get one and be put on their mailing list.)

Recent Releases & Reviews: 

Evangeline Made, A Tribute to Cajun Music.(Vanguard). 
An all-star line-up of artists including John Fogerty, Nick Lowe, Richard Thompson, Linda Ronstadt, David Johansen, Linda Thompson, Rodney Crowell, Maria McKee, and Patty Griffin pay homage to Cajun culture, singing entirely in French, on this Vanguard compilation. Produced by Ann Savoy,  these 'brand name' musicians are supported by a "Who's Who" of Cajun musicians (including Michael Doucet, Steve Riley, Mark Savoy, Sonny Landreth, David Greeley,  Dirk Powell, Christine Balfa, David Doucet, Kevin Wimmer, Jimmy Breaux, Mitchell Reed and Sam Broussard) and the resultant recording stays true to the Cajun sound. The tracks by Patty Griffin and Richard Thompson particularly  grabbed me.  Griffin's vocals on  'Pa Janvier, Laisser Moi M'en Aller' sound so sad they just break your heart, and the music sounds like it is weeping with her.   Listen in particular to guitar which  just quivers and plucks and swoons with sadness. Richard Thompson adds brilliant guitar playing to his solo rendition of the Cajun classic, "Les Flemmes d'enfer,"  and adds his own sensibilities to great result.   The remaining cuts on this CD are equally worthy.  Highly recommended.

Boozoo Chavis, Down Home on Dog Hill (Rounder). 

This posthumously released CD may just be Boozoo best studio recording. Featuring Sonny Landreth on guitar, and David Greely on fiddle, along with Boozoo's regular band (Classie Ballou, Jr  on bass, Charles Chavis on rubboard and  vocals, and Rellis Chavis on drums), there are some catchy new tunes here (try not to sing along to the nursery rhyme-like, "I'm Still Blinkin'" or "Tell Me What You Want",  and some killer remakes, including "Johnnie Billy Goat, and "Negre est pas la", all enhanced by Greely's & Landrey's excellent contributions.  Highly recommended.

Zydeco Force, "You Mean the World To Me" (Maison de Soul.)

“Drivin ’old-school Zydeco done right!”. This is Zydeco Force ’s 6th album, who with founding members Jeffery Broussard & Robby Robinson, are one of the the few remaining traditional style Zydeco groups recording and touring today.  The CD includes "Japanese Zydeco", which I thought was one of the musical highpoints of their Eagle's Hall show here in September.

Sean Ardoin and ZydeKool, Pullin'

Sean Ardoin represents both the rural roots and progressive future of Louisiana's foot-stomping Creole zydeco and has great zydeco bloodlines: his great-uncle Amédé was the first south Louisiana Creole accordionist to record; his grandfather Bois-Sec has been one of the best-known practitioners of the state's rural Creole sound for six decades; his father Lawrence brought the family's sound to his generation; and Sean co-led the acclaimed zydeco outfit Double Clutchin' with his younger brother Chris.  This is his 2nd CD and first national release, which he also wrote, arranged and produced.  His inventive compositions build on the legacy of zydeco innovators such as Beau Jocque and Keith Frank while showcasing Sean's innovative vocal arrangements and his funk and R&B influences.

C. J. Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band, Step it Up! The latest CD by Clifton Chenier's son, C.J. starts off with a bang, showcasing some incredible accordion playing on his  original tune, "Zydeghost".   C.J. has a powerful soulful voice and mixed  with his accordion chops, he flavors this CD with elements of funk, blues and ballads, as well as more traditional zydeco material, including a cover his father's song, "Johnny Can't Dance".

Sam Broussard, "Geeks""  As the new lead guitarist for Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys, Lafayette-LA based Sam Broussard adds some virtuoso guitar-playing and sweet harmonies to this Cajun band's performances.  In his debut solo album, which won the Offbeat 2000 award for best Country/Folk CD, Broussard has created one of the most intelligent CDs I've heard in a long time, albeit not in the Cajun genre.    Broussard is a masterful guitar player and can write haunting melodies that stick in your brain.  However, the strength of "Geeks" is in his characters and his storytelling.  He is an articulate lyricist with a unique and  adult perspective. Few artists  concern themselves with grown-up issues. His cast of characters include the elderly, politicians, lawyers, cops and priests all caught & struggling with their individual ambiguous, thought-provoking situations. Even his love songs have this unique perspective. The CD works as pure music but then, once you have sat down with the lyric sheet, you can't get the songs out of your mind. His lyrics can be both brutally direct and then wonderfully lyrical. Broussard brings to mind & is in the same class with such other great, dark, self-aware, wordy & thoughtful singer/songwriters, as: Tom Waits, Richard Thompson, & Graham Parker.. Highly recommended. (For more info and lyrics, check out www.sambroussard.com )

The Best of Beau Jocque and the Zydeco Hi-Rollers. 
 (Rounder) Beau Jocque was the big man, literally and figuratively, of the zydeco scene in the last decade.  He got his start playing between gigs with Boozoo Chavis and John Delafose, analyzing what the turned on the audience finally emerging with the funky, bluesy, double-kicking,  driving beat that was later labeled 'nouveau zydeco' His baritone vocals had a  booming vocal intensity that riveted those who heard him.   This collection captures some of the Beau Jocque's range, from his hit, "Give Him Cornbread", to the growling "Damballah", to his popular covers of "Cisco Kid" and "Tighten Up".

Rosie Ledet "Show Me Something", Maison de Soul. 
Release date is August 7th.

This is Rosie ’s 6th CD release and 7th album overall. Contains: the hot rockin “The Next Thing ”, the steamy “Days Gone By ”and arguably the best cover ever of “Lady Marmalade ”and more. Features 12 selections with 11 of them Rosie ’s originals.

Tete Rouge, Live at Ardenwood '98  

This limited edition CD was made from a recording made at Tete Rouge's September 1998 Ardenwood Cajun/Zydeco Festival performance.  It is thought to be the only existing recording of a complete high-energy set by this  band that played regular Sunday night gigs at Bobby's Back Door from 1997 through 1999.   To hear some soundclips from the CD, click here.

To order your Tete Rouge Live at Ardenwood '98 CD, send $15.00 ( $12.00 for the cd plus $3.00 s/h) to : Tete Rouge c/o Bobby Klein, 619 Alcatraz Ave.,, Oakland, Ca 94609.    Payment may be made in personal check or money order made out to Linda Castle. Please include your name, mailing address, email address, and phone number.    For orders outside the USA, or for more information, please contact Bobby Klein at : tete_rouge@onemain.com or bobklein@jps.net or visit the Tete Rouge website..

Kenny Menard, Live at  the Silver Club Big Easy 2001/Sparks, NV.  This live recording, made in July 2001 at the Big Easy street festival, captures Kenny Menard at his best.  Included are some great versions of Diamonds and Pearls and Lake Charles Connection.   To order call 916-535-5134 or go to www.mother.com/louisianasue. 

Mona "Zydeco Queen" Wilson's Instructional Creole Zydeco video  featuring Zydeco-robics (R) Mona-robics (R) Style. 86 minute video  includes good dancing & music and a special live performance by Andre Thierry. The segments are Basics, Beyond Basics and Beyond Basics LIVE to Andre Thierry.  $29.95 plus $3.00 shipping and handling. Make your money order or check payable to:  Zydeco Dancing, Etc.!! P. O. Box 61171 Houston, TX  77208-1171.  For more info, email Mona at qnzydeco@aol.com or go to www.zydecoqueen.crazygator.com

BUCKWHEAT ZYDECO:DOWN HOME LIVE! "This record captures us doing what we do best in the place we love the most," Buckwheat says of the disc recorded on home turf in the heart of Creole Country at El Sid O's Zydeco & Blues Club in Lafayette, La. The album, available at  www.BuckwheatZydeco.com, captures 73 minutes of music and fun recorded during the band's annual Thanksgiving stop in the neighborhood where Buck grew up. El Sid O's is one of the smallest (and coolest) venues the band
visits all year, and this album catches them at their most relaxed and
rollicking.

Gumbo Mix, Bonne Musique Zydeco, featuring Jo Jo Reed, Willis Prudhomme, Chris P. Ardoin, and Danny Poullard. This Southern California band was formed expressly for the purpose of supporting Louisiana musicians who were passing through the LA area and needed a backup band.  The CD shows their versatility on a wide-ranging selection of material, including songs by Dewey Balfa, Beau Jocque, Amede Ardoin and Clifton Chenier.  To order go to www.bonnemusiquezydeco.com or email bjdeculus@ aol.com

Re-issue of Zydeco Joe CD, Jack Rabbit 

For those Zydeco Joe fans who have wanted a copy of his out-of-print CD from 1996, you are now in luck.  Maison de Soul has re-issued the CD under their label, with new linear notes and packaging.  I still play this  CD a lot.  Joe's original songs are catchy and great to dance to.  My favorites are the title song and "Why Do You Treat Me Like You Do".   Send an email to info@floydsrecord.com for purchasing information (and tell 'em I sent you!) (the CD is not yet listed on www.floydsrecords.com) 

West Coast Mardi Gras Party 

A collection of songs from the best of the West Coast bands playing Zydeco, Cajun,  New Orleans R&B,  Funk & Dixieland.  There are 15 tracks from 15 West Coast artists, including The Zydeco Flames, Gator Beat, Andre Thierry, Motordude Zydeco, California Cajun Orchestra (w/ Danny Poullard), Rhythmtown-Jive, Mumbo Gumbo, Tom Rigney, Tee Fee, Eddie Baytos & the Nervis Bros. (w/ Ziggy Modeliste), Frog Legs, Golden Gate Rhythm Machine, Brass Monkey, S. E. Willis, and The Pulsators (w/ Art Neville). (59 minutes) 

 "In America, great migrations produce great music. Just as Delta musicians took Highway 61 to Chicago and electrified their blues, so did the Creoles and Cajuns migrate to California and establish vital dance communities. Now the California scenes rival anything back home in Louisiana..." - Michael Tisserand, author, The Kingdom of Zydeco. 

For more info or to order go to:  http://www.globerecords.com  or call (415)381-1702 

The Rounder Heritage Series: Mardi Gras In New Orleans
Rounder ROUN 116-611-600-2 Street Date: February 13, 2001
B000058DY3 

When it's Carnival time in New Orleans, the late winter air crackles with
the sounds of marching brass bands, the chants of the Mardi Gras Indians,
and a full repertoire of classic rhythm and blues songs which seem to blare
forth from every radio. This collection brings together some of the best and
most authentic recordings of the music of Mardi Gras, with many of the great
names in New Orleans rhythm and blues, as well as the Cajun and zydeco
sounds of Southwest Louisiana. Here is the soundtrack to the world's
greatest party! Compiled by Scott Billington, with notes by New Orleans
writer John Sinclair. 24 bit digital remastering from the original analogue
or digital sources.
Includes: Bo Dollis and the Wild Magnolias  "Meet De Boys on the Battlefront"
Beau Jocque and the Zydeco Hi-Rollers  "Beau's Mardi Gras"
Marcia Ball, Irma Thomas & Tracy Nelson  "Sing It"
Bo Dollis and Monk Boudreaux with ReBirth Brass Band  "Let's Go Get 'Em"
Chuck Carbo  "Hey Mardi Gras (Here I Am)"
Dejan's Olympia Brass Band  "New Second Line"
Buckwheat Zydeco  "My Feet Can't Fail Me Now"
Bo Dollis and the Wild Magnolias  "Carnival Time"
The New Orleans Nightcrawlers  "Funky Liza"
Zachary Richard  "Mardi Gras Mambo"
ReBirth Brass Band  "Do Whatcha Wanna, Part 3"
Dirty Dozen Brass Band  "Mardi Gras in New Orleans"
Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys  "La Danse de Mardi Gras"
Bo Dollis and Monk Boudreaux with ReBirth Brass Band  "Shoo Fly"
Marcia Ball  "Big Shot" ReBirth Brass Band  "Just a Little While to Stay Here"

Steve Riley And The Mamou Playboys, Happytown
Rounder ROUN 116 616 098-2 Street Date: February 6, 2001

Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys' eighth release opens a new window in the 21st century Cajun world. Happytown folds time in on itself, examining the emotions of creole slave poetry with burly, serpentine electric guitar; tightly interlaced fiddles that sigh as if inches away from the ear; drum loops and digital samples of black juré singing from the thirties; and the
fever of full bore diatonic accordion revelry. The album features acoustic
recordings made on the banks of the Atchafalaya Swamp, as well as lyrics
that visit the tenderness of forbidden love and the brutality of a midnight
fistfight. Happytown takes the band beyond the realm of mimicking old
records, beyond hybrids of ethnic rock, into a new world of true expression
that carries tribal memory through today and into the future.
Produced by C.C. Adcock.
Includes: "Creole Stomp," "Big Boy Waltz," "Gros Jean/Big John," "Seems to Me," "Les vigilants/The Vigilantes," "La crève de faim/Starvation 2-Step," "Patoutville," "Poché Bridge," "Mes enfants/My Children," "Heat Lightning/Éclairs de chaleur," "Pointe aux Chênes/Oak Point"

Beausoleil, Looking Back Tomorrow: Beausoleil Live!  (Rhino)

Clifton Chenier Live at Grant Street. (Arhoolie 487) Recorded live at Grant Street in , Lafayette, LA on April 28, 1981, this was a recording that Clifton personally arranged and paid for.  The tapes were recently acquired from Chenier's widow by Chris Strachwitz of Arhoolie Records, one of the earliest producers to record Clifton.   Backed by his legendary his Red Hot Louisiana Band, that included Cleveland Chenier on rubboard and C. J. Chenier on alto sax and Robert Peter on drums, Clifton plays his new electronic accordion on this recording, and sings with great strength and enthusiasm.  The 14 cuts on this CD are all Chenier originals, including "Johnny Can't Dance".  

Jason Frey & Travis Matte with Lagniappe, "A La Vieille Maniere" (La Louisianne Records).  If you like your Cajun music not souped up with Country-Western influences, you will love this recent recording by Jason Frey (accordion) and Travis Matte (fiddle), two  musicians from SW Louisiana who play regularly at Mulate's in Breaux Bridge. Both musicians started young, Jason at age 11 and Travis at 18. Travis has since won CMFA's "Fiddler of the Year" award three times. These players come from musical families and "In the Old Style"  reflects their intent  to pay tribute to the music passed down in their families.  The CD itself is a mix of killer versions of traditional songs, including "Les Flammes d'enfer', "Two Step de Eunice",  "Two Step de Perrodin"  and   "Les Blues de Port Arthur."  Just like in a traditional Cajun dance-hall, just about every other song on this CD is a waltz and a few songs are original compositions that fit right in.  For those of you in the Bay Area, if you are fans of Cajun music in the style of Danny Poullard, you will love this CD.  To order, go to the La Louisianne Records website. 

Boozoo Chavis,  Johnnie Billy Goat  (Rounder)   

Boozoo Chavis' re-emergence in the mid-1980s – after a quarter century away from music, training race horses – has had a profound effect on the direction zydeco has taken in the 15 years since then. Simply put, Boozoo’s recordings reintroduced Creole Louisiana to its rural roots. The earthy power of his pumping diatonic accordion, and the bluesy wallop of his backing band, quickly rendered obsolete the more mellow, slick, piano-accordion-based sounds that had been ruling zydeco. Boozoo’s sound is the real thing: a raw, rockin' meeting of Creole folk music with a firm, bluesy pulse. In the 1950s and early '60s, Boozoo's recordings solidified the elements that are now called zydeco. In the year 2000 and beyond, Boozoo's impact continues through stomping concerts and classic recordings like those collected here. Featuring three sweaty, pounding live performances that have never before been released, Johnnie Billy Goat is the definitive Boozoo collection, with many of his best-known songs. This release also features extensive notes by producer Scott Billington.

Includes: "Dance All Night," "Dog Hill," "Goin’ to la maison," "Oh Yeah," "Motor Dude Special," "Lula Lula Don’t You Go To Bingo," "I’m Going to the Country to Get Me a Mojo Hand," "Lucille," "I Want to Go Home," "Tee Black," "Big Leg Woman," "Who Stole My Monkey?" "Boozoo, That’s Who!" "I Went to the Dance," "Paper in My Shoe," "41 Days," "Oh Black Gal," "Grand Mary’s Two Step," "Valse de derniere fois," "Oh bye mon neg," "Johnnie Billy Goat," "I’m Going Away to Stay"

Rosie Ledet, It's A Groove Thing.  Wow!  This is one great recording by Rosie Ledet.  Rosie has a great singing voice that is show-cased on this CD, with excellent accompaniment by Keith Frank on guitar and Pat Breaux on saxophone.  The recording is one of the most sophisticated zydeco recordings I have heard in a while and it has stood the test of repeated listening, as it was the only tape I had with me for three days of driving around SW Louisiana.  Check out the soulful "Hold On", or  "So Damn Bad"  or the pop-influenced "Big Brother".   Highly recommended.  

 J. Paul and the Zydeco Nubreedz.  Phenomenon.  A strong follow-up to Another Level, J. Paul's recordings show the influence of gospel, hip-hop, r&b, soul, concept albums,  and traditional zydeco.  He is a charismatic performer with a strong stage presence, and this recording makes for great listening as well as dancing.  Phenomenon has some great cuts on it.  "Where My Soldiers At"  is a tribute to the zydeco artists that came before him with wailing vocals and accordion playing that will blow you away.  "No Sad Songs" and "Farmer's Waltz" are new arrangements of traditional songs  that make these songs sound fresh, with beautiful harmonies and strong instrumentation.   In 1997 Offbeat Magazine  ran a review saying that J. Paul had the potential to become the next "Keith Frank". (This was when the Nubreedz were the Newbreeds).   Although you could never confuse a Keith Frank recording with one by J. Paul as their sensibilities are very different, in retrospect Offbeat  may just have called this one right.

Zydeco Force, We're Back. Zydeco Force was originally formed by Robbie Robinson in 1988. After touring the Zydeco circuit,the group reached a level of success that includes five cds, commercials, (radio and television), a
movie score, a number of documentaries, an interview and performance on Good Morning America.  We're Back is their first recording since the early 90's.  The band has a strong rhythm section and vocal harmonies and was a big favorite at this year's Festival Acadiens. They play zydeco that reminds me of the styles of Beau Jocque, Geno Delafose and Boozoo Chavis.  "Mr. Jeffrey" is a catchy instrumental tune.  "Love to Zydeco" will get you up dancing in your living room. Zydeco Force also has a knack for playing waltzes, a strength lacking in many zydeco bands.  This is a strong come-back recording. 

Beau Jocque & the Zydeco Hi-Rollers Give Him Cornbread: Live. (Rounder 116 612 160-2). 

When I first started dancing to C/z, I enjoyed zydeco but I loved Cajun music  as I had come to the music through BeauSoleil.  Then I saw Beau Jocque.  My first time was at a Rounder sponsored tour that also included Steve Riley and Marcia Ball at Slim's in San Francisco and my life changed after that.  A month later Beau Jocque was playing at the Long Beach festival, and I decided to fly down to see him again. It was the first time I had every flown anywhere to dance... and my first step down that zydeco road.. 

Give Him Cornbread Live was recorded around this time  when Beau Jocque was at the peak of his popularity.  Most of his best-known songs from this period are included on this CD, which was recorded at the Habibi Temple in Lake Charles at perhaps the first Beau Jocque vs Boozoo Chavis battle of the bands for the title of "King of Zydeco". Over 1400 people were in the audience to add excitement to the event. Beau Jocque's enormously funky and  primal howls and growls are showcased here, punctuated by Skeeta's chatter and it might be his most fiery performance on record.  Songs include Cornbread, Bad Bad Woman, Beau Jocque Boogie and my favorite, Damballah. This CD  is a great document of this great zydeco master's style.  Beau Jocque died in 1999 at the age of 47. These are the last unreleased recordings in Rounder's archive. 

Produced by Scott Billington.  Includes: Introduction by Lawrence Ardoin, "Give Him Cornbread," "Bad Bad Woman," "Beau Jocque Boogie," "Baby Please Don’t Go," "Grand Marais," "Damballah," "‘Gardez Donc!" "Brownskin Woman," "Nonc Adam," "Boogie Chillen," "I Went To the Dance Last Night," "Do It All Night"

Balfa Toujours Live at Whiskey River Landing (Rounder 116 616 096-2) Street Date: August 15, 2000

Whisky River Landing is a wild place.  Built partially over the Atchafalaya Basin in Henderson, LA,  Sunday afternoons are the place to join the locals and dance to a Cajun band. (listen to NPR commentator's reaction to the place here.).  So it is only fitting that one of the premier Cajun bands of our time should release a live recording from this classic Cajun dancehall and boathouse. 

On this recording, Balfa Tourjour bring their Acadian heritage to life while refusing to be shackled by it. Their vast repertoire bridges old and new, originals and covers. This is great recording that captures this terrific band playing at one of their favorite venues for a hometown audience. 

Includes: "La chandelle est allumée," "Whiskey River Special," "La valse des pins," "Le reel Frugé," "Le two-step de Bon Café," "The Tow Truck Blues," "Mon vieux wagon," "La valse de Bélizaire," "Le two-step de Platin," "Casse pas ma tête," "Frank DuPuis a pris ma femme," "Tu peux cogner mais tu peux pas rentrer," "C’est tout perdu," "Keep Your Hands Off Of It," "Chez Geno"

Chris Ardoin and Double Clutchin',  Best Kept Secret, (Rounder). 
Chris Ardoin, the enfant terrible of the family that made the first zydeco recordings in the late 1920s , and his Double Clutchin' band have become one of the top attractions on the Gulf Coast dancehall circuit. Chris plays zydeco as funky and furious as it comes. This recording pushes the envelope of zydeco, flirts big-time with funk  and skirts the edge of rock and roll.  Chris plays a mean accordion & band's trademark  smooth vocals and harmonies are here as well.   Check out  his version of The Temptations "Papa Was A Rolling Stone"  which is remade as hardcore zydeco song.  
Produced by Scott Billington
Includes: "Holdin' On," "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone," "What You Got Down There?, Part 2," "Best Kept Secret," "Hold That Tiger," "What's In That Bayou?" "Lyin' Cryin' and Tryin'," "If It Makes You Happy/It Just Ain't Right," ""I Don't Want Nobody Here But You," "Storm Don't Last Long," "Get Gone," "Chris's Trail Ride" 

Charivari, I Want to Dance with You, (Rounder). 
Charivari (pronounced shah-ree-va-ree), a group of young Cajun musicians who take their name from an ancient Louisiana tradition of all-night merry-making, play energetic and emotionally unreserved music on this exciting debut. With a strong core that includes fiddler Mitchell Reed and guitarist/singer Randy Vidrine, the band stakes its claim as one of the premier groups performing
in the Cajun tradition today. Guests such as Michael Doucet and Sam Broussard join in the festivities; the result is a recording with all the wild energy and let-loose spirit of an all-night Cajun house party just before sunrise. They were great at Jazz Fest and the Fort Lauderdale Crawfish festival this year.
Produced by Peter Schwarz.
Includes: "The Monkey and the Fiddle," "The Woman I Never Forgot," "Torchon's Reels," "I'm Lonely Tonight," "I Don't Want to Work," "Femmes," "Pascal's Egrets," "I Want to Dance with You," "Jolie Bassette," "Kissell's Reel," "La Derniere Fois," "Arc de Triomphe Two-Step"

Beau Jocque & the Zydeco Hi-Rollers, I'm Coming Home (Mardi Gras). This posthumously released CD was recorded in 1993 and 1999. Four of the twelve tracks were originally released as Beau Jocque's Nursery Rhyme on the experimental  Beau Jocque music label.  Nursery Rhyme is a fun tune, with Beau Jocque and his drummer, Skeeta, trying to top each other composing silly rhyming ditties to that distinctive Beau Jocque beat. Puddy Cat is another goofy song that talks of cats and baseball bats... you get the picture?  Clifton Chenier's I'm Coming Home takes on an unexpectedly tragic  meaning. Three tracks are tribute tracks:  2 feature Jo Jo Reed on accordion and a third showcases Jeffery Broussard from Zydeco Force.   

Debut CD Released by the SF Bay Area's Andre Thierry

Andre Thierry released his aptly titled and long awaited CD, It's About Time, on Friday, April 21st at Eagle's Hall. For a first CD release by this young musician, it does not disappoint.  Recorded in Lafayette, LA, Andre assembled a legendary group of  musicians to record with, including Steve Nash, former rubboard player with Geno Delafose and French Rockin' Boogie, and Chuck Bush & Eric Minix,   Beau Jocque's  bass player  and drummer respectively. Eight of the ten songs are Andre originals, and the remaining two, I'm On a Wonder and Tante Ne Na,  were composed by and pay tribute to Clifton Chenier, who legend has it, once grabbed seven-year old Andre by the arm and said, "That's going to be an accordion man".

It's About Time shows Andre's versatility. Andre's live performances are dominated by hard-driving, wailing accordion instrumentals, and he moves effortlessly from single, double and triple-row button accordions  to piano accordion during his sets.   His accordion virtuosity is highlighted on "Theme Song" , "My Way" and "Boss Hog".   He shows off his budding song-writing skills in "It's About Time" and "Crying Shame".    Vocally, Andre has matured greatly in the last year, and his singing is beginning to show an authority and confidence it previously lacked.  He really shines on Chenier's "I'm on a Wonder", which has become a  tour-de-force during his recent gigs.   To wrap things up, he also includes a traditional waltz and shuffle. 

While "It's About Time" doesn't fully capture the energy of seeing Andre Thierry in person, and some of the material  reflects the youth and freshness of this new recording artist and the influence of his sidemen (you can't help from hearing strains of Beau Jocque style in the recording),  the CD is a good introduction to  Andre's talents , and holds great promise for the music yet to come.

To order a CD now , call 510-215-5682.  In the near future, a website will be updated to take CD orders. Right now, the page showcases  Jim Philip's well-written reflections on Andre's career. 

Wayne Toups & Zydecajun, Little Wooden Box, (Shanachie). Wayne mixes  his Louisiana Cajun roots with country and rock & roll on his latest release. 

Lil Band o' Gold. (Shanachie).  This is a swamp pop band that features three generations of Lafayette musicians including Steve Riley, David Greely(Mamou Playboys)  David Egan (File),  plus  Warren Storm, CC Adcock, and Richard Comeaux.  This is a fine CD with some great ballads on it. Don't buy it expecting typical Steve Riley Cajun fare and you won't be disappointed.  

My Arhoolie Festival

Recently I've had the opportunity to explore some of the Bay Area's   Arhoolie Records Cajun, Zydeco and Creole catalog, and it is amazing.   Arhoolie Records is the life's work and passion of its founder, Chris Strachwitz, who set out to document the best authentic down home blues singers in the 1960's and as he ventured forth musically also captured  many legendary Cajun, Creole and Zydeco performers on tape.

In 1964  through his work with Lightning Hopkins, Chris got introduced to Clifton Chenier and the following day made his first recording of Clifton's work.   There are currently 11 CDs in Arhoolie's Chenier catalog, including one 1971 recording,  "Live At St. Mark's",  made in Richmond, CA.  I have particularly enjoyed "King of the Bayou", which features compelling versions of "Zodico Two-Step", "I'm Coming Home", and "Release Me".  Listening to this collection, one can see how Chenier earned the title, "The King of Zydeco".

Another Creole family represented in Arhoolie's catalog is the Ardoins.  While the current generation of zydeco fans is well acquainted with Chris Ardoin and Double Clutchin', and Sean Ardoin and Zydecool, who are among the most   popular musicians on the Crawfish Circuit today, most will have little experience with Amede Ardoin, the  French-speaking Creole accordion player, who in the 1930's, single-handedly created the modern Cajun music style, often accompanied by white Cajun fiddler , Dennis McGee. Amede drew huge crowds wherever he played, and he played for both white and black audiences. Arhoolie's recording includes 26 songs by Amedie  made between 1930 and 1934, and are a must for any one seriously interested in learning about the roots of Cajun and Zydeco music. Alphonse, " Bois Sec" Ardoin is a cousin of Amede's who is still alive today and occasionally records with Dewey Balfa's daughter, Christine.  On his Arhoolie recording, "La Musique Creole", he performs with Creole fiddler, Canray Fontenot, on a record made by Chris Strachwitz near Mamou, LA in 1966.  It is recorded entirely in French.  Lawrence "Black" Ardoin, is the son  of Bois Sec, and the father of zydeco stars, Chris and Sean Ardoin. His CD, "Traditional Creole", can  be seen as a bridge between the traditions of Creole and Zydeco. While some songs are very much in the old style, to my ear, Lawrence also starts showing a subtle hint of the modern style. For example,  he begins to include some English songs, as well as songs that alternate French and English lyrics. I'm particularly fond of "What's Good for the Gander".   Edward Poullard, brother of the Bay Area's Danny Poullard, plays fiddle on this CD. 

Arhoolie has also been the home of many Cajun musicians. One   fiddler I recently discovered is Wade Fruge.  His " Old Style Cajun Music", recorded by Chris Strachwitz  between 1979 and 1989, are the only recordings made of  this legendary fiddler, who played primarily at house parties.   Michael Doucet and BeauSoleil,  and Marc and Ann Savoy are also represented by Arhoolie.  As The Savoy-Doucet Cajun Band, their most recent release is "Sam's Big Rooster".  I find it a little dry compared to an earlier Arhoolie release,   the excellent, "Live! at the Dance", which was recorded at Ashkenaz in 1993-4 and also features the Bay Area's Billy Wilson.  One of my favorite BeauSoleil album's is the 1987 Arhoolie release, "Hot Chili Mama".  Arhoolie's Bay Area connection includes the recordings of The California Cajun Orchestra, featuring   Danny Poullard, Eric and Suzy Thompson, and Sam Siggins.  

The Arhoolie catalog is extensive and worth exploring.   Besides the artists and CDs mentioned above, are several great compilations of early Cajun and Zydeco music, CD's by Joe Falcon, Nathan Abshire, John Delafose, Harry Choates, Austin Pitre, and the Hackberry Ramblers and much, much more.  Their catalog   includes a fascinating history of the record label and stories about how some of the recordings were made.   If you go down to their store, "Down Home Records", 10341 San Pablo Ave, in El Cerrito, CA, the friendly staff will let you sample any recordings you are interested in. Further information can be also found on their website, www.arhoolie.com

Beau Jocque & the Zydeco Hi-Rollers, I'm Coming Home (Mardi Gras). This posthumously released CD was recorded in 1993 and 1999. Four of the twelve tracks were originally released as Beau Jocque's Nursery Rhyme on the experimental  Beau Jocque music label.  Nursery Rhyme is a fun tune, with Beau Jocque and his drummer, Skeeta, trying to top each other composing silly rhyming ditties to that distinctive Beau Jocque beat. Puddy Cat is another goofy song that talks of cats and baseball bats... you get the picture?  Clifton Chenier's I'm Coming Home takes on an unexpectedly tragic  meaning. Three tracks are tribute tracks:  2 feature Jo Jo Reed on accordion and a third showcases Jeffery Broussard from Zydeco Force.     

Keith Frank, Ready or Not (Shanachie)

"Ready Or Not" is Keith Frank's first studio record in over two years and a worthy follow-up to Live At Slim's Y-Ki-Ki. eith Frank has always looked around and incorporated many musical influences into his recordings, and this one shows Keith in a pop mood.. There's a tasty version of  "I Got Loaded", which has also been showcased recently in Steve Riley's repetoire.  Also featured are Keith's zydeco takes on such tunes as Katrina and the Waves "Walking on Sunshine," Bob Marley's "Don't Worry," and a terrific "Back to the Fifties" medley featuring bits of "Why Do Fools Fall in Love", "Blue Moon", "Stay" and  "A Teenager in Love".   A nice bluesy, original composition, "Got to Get You Into My Life" shows Keith in a mellow mood.

Magnolia Sisters Chers Amis (Rounder 189 646 070-2)
The Magnolia Sisters offer a refreshing perspective on Cajun music, not only because they are one of the genre’s only all-woman band, but in their beautiful harmonies and rediscovery of little-known traditional repertoire. Ann Savoy, Jane Vidrine, Tina Pilione, Christine Balfa and Lisa Trahan Reed are strong acoustic instrumentalists who have created an album of beauty and great strength, balancing rollicking dance music with haunting and ancient ballads. Ann Savoy is a member of the Savoy-Doucet Band (with her husband Marc Savoy and BeauSoleil leader Michael Doucet) and Christine Balfa leads Balfa Toujours.    Produced by Ann Savoy.

Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas, Let's Go!
(Rounder 116 612 159-2) 
One of the best zydeco bands on the southwest Louisiana circuit today, any new recording by  Nathan Williams & the Zydeco Cha Chas is worth looking forward to.. Produced by Scott Billington..Includes: "Let's Go!" "Too Much Wine," "Put a Hump in Your Back," "Zydeco Rumble," "Everything Happens for the Best," "Hard Times," "Zydeco Is All I Know," "Cricket Leg Zydeco," "Can't Get Nuthin', Sucka," "El Sid O's Party," "You Don't Love Me No More," "Stay Out All Night," "Oh Mom," "Le Bon Manger"

Putumayo presents Louisiana Gumbo, and Putumayo presents Zydeco. 2 new albums  from the record label specializing in World Music. Zydeco features Rosie Ledet, The Creole Zydeco Farmers, Keith Frank, Boozoo Chavis,  and Beau Jocque among others. Louisiana Gumbo has a few zydeco tracks as well as Snooks Eaglin, the Neville Brothers, James Booker and Johnny Adams, to name a few. I've always been impressed with Putumayo's world music compililations (one of my favorites is Mali to Memphis)  and their take on Lousiana music, particularly the Zydeco album, is a worthy addition, and exellent introduction to the genre. Check out "Hoochie Coochie" by Joe KK and Zydeco Force or "Stay In or Stay Out  - Pass the Dutchie" by Chris Ardoin & Double Clutchin', and see if you can remain seated.

Music from the Zydeco Kingdom   (Rounder ROUN 11579)

This is an anthology of zydeco music, compiled by author Michael Tisserand as a  companion recording to his acclaimed book, The Kingdom of Zydeco (Arcade Publishing, 1998).  As always, Michael's linear notes are illuminating and the mix of music, for a 1 CD anthology, is encyclopedic,  ranging from trailblazers like Amede Ardoin, Clifton Chenier and Boozoo Chavis, to the young bucks of today (showcasing traditional tracks by Keith Frank and Chris Ardoin), to material a fan of the genre might not normally come across (Les Freres Carrieres, Ambrose Sam, La Latour's Sulphur Playboys).  The CD makes for great listening AND a great dance party.
Artist / Songs: 1. Amédé Ardoin "Two Step de Eunice" (Eunice Two Step) 2. Zydeco Force "Broken Hearted" 3. John Delafose & the Eunice Playboys "Tu m'as fait brailler" (You Made Me Cry) 4. Ambrose Sam "Oh Yes, I'm Going Away" 5. Clifton Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band "Grand Prix" 6. Keith Frank "Bernadette c'est ma tit Creole" 7. Boozoo Chavis "Grand Mary's Two Step" 8. Queen Ida with Al Rapone "La Femme de Doight" 9. Little Latour's Sulphur Playboys "C-Key Blues" 10. C.J. Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band "Louisiana Down Home Blues" 11. Les Freres Carrieres "Zydeco a Carriere" 12. Rockin Dopsie & the Cajun Twisters "Dopsie's Cajun Stomp" 13. Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas "Everything on the Hog" 14. Buckwheat Zydeco "Hot Tamale Baby" 15. Clifton Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band "Cher Catin" 16. Rosie Ledet "I'm Gonna Take Care of Your Dog" 17. Beau Jocque & the Zydeco Hi-Rollers "Give Him Cornbread" (Live) 18. Canray Fontenot & Bois Sec Ardoin "Hack a 'tit Moreau" (Bonsoir,  Moreau) 19. Chris Ardoin & Double Clutchin' "Ardoin Two Step"

Allons en Louisiane -- The Rounder Records Guide to Cajun Music, Zydeco and South Louisiana

Related Topics:  For New Listeners  (Recommended Recordings) and Music Reviews.