The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival kicked off its first day with big acts to span all generations.
The Lafayette based GIVERS energized the audience with an enthusiastically animated performance in which they covered ’80s new wave rock band Talking Heads.
This served as a warm up for an even more electrifying showing by Grammy winner Bon Iver, who played an encore to honor what band leader Justin Vernon proclaimed the greatest musical festival.
The Acura Stage at the opposite end of the festival hosted the 20th year anniversary of the Beach Boys. John Stamos, the president of the Beach Boys Fan Club, introduced the group by explaining their significance to American culture.
While sunny 80s temperature caused several sun burns, overcast clouds and a persistent wind ensured festival goers could move around comfortably without feeling too hot.
And while fans packed each large performance, no stage seemed too tightly bunched with room for fans to move into crowds and find solid viewpoints.
Different styles of old and new acclaimed music will take stages Saturday, with Cee Lo Green and Feist performing as recently celebrated artists while Tom Petty & the Hearbreakers will play a healthy helping of catchy classics.
_____
Contact Austen Krantz at [email protected]