Sunday, 05 July 2009 13:47
A waxing 3/4 moon hangs in the clear blue sky; Three stages of a variety of blues musicians to choose from; the setting, along a relatively narrow grassy strip of Portand bounded by the Willamette River on one side and the business of downtown Portland on the other that is called Tom McCall Waterfront Park; local sponsors provide the impetus and the Oregon Food Bank reaps the proceeds to support thier programs providing food to folks that need it.
This is truly a festival. It celebrates great American music. It supports needed work. Folks flock to the festival for both the music and for the cause it supports.
Last night's headline act on the Main Stage was supposed to be Etta James. However, she could not make it at the last minute and Keb Mo showed to take her place. I would have enjoyed seeing Etta James but I always like seeing Keb Mo in person. His style of blues is mellow yet true blues at heart. At the smallest stage the Zydeco music began at 8 pm. Nathan Williams and the Zydeco Cha Chas opened and were followed by Geno Delafose and French Rockin Boogie. There is a temporary dance floor, tables, chairs and benches, and shade cloth suspended over the area (very necessary thanks to the great weather).
Each year I am pleasantly surprised at the enthusiasm of the folks who come to the venue. I know many of the regular Zydeco dancing crowd and know how enthusiastic they are about the music and the dancing, but many people I don't recognize. I assume that they mostly are new to Zydeco yet they are all joyously listening and dancing. By listening, I mean they are usually standing and moving to the music. By dancing, I mean they are standing and moving to the music. It is after all impossible not to move to this fun beat!
Friday the Zydeco begins at noon and goes to closing time at 11 pm. I need my rest!
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