To the dismay of every music snob I come across these days, I am a huge fan of Better Than Ezra.
While my musical taste could usually be classified as “hipster” or “Hey, that doesn’t sound like music,” Better Than Ezra has always held a special place in my iTunes library.
But it seems love for the ’90s rock gods is dwindling – even at their alma mater.
Though some have let BTE fade into the same fuzzy nostalgia as groups like Gin Blossoms and Blue’s Traveler, I and hundreds of fans still follow the band’s career and flock to their energetic live performances.
I first saw BTE at the Varsity Theatre in 2010, their old haunt when they were LSU students.
A BTE show is better experienced than described because it’s hard to express the bands contagious energy. More of a party than a concert, lead singer Kevin Griffin charisma on stage fits the bands uptempo, clean rock style.
Playing classic hits like “Desperately Wanting” and “Good,” the band uses their time on stage to expand their songs, entering into Griffin’s famous “break it down and kick it up” jam session or ushering in an expert cover of Snoop Dogg’s “Drop It Like It’s Hot.”
Seeing Better Than Ezra play in their home state is extra special because the band exudes unique southern pride. They’re not singing about Red Solo Cups or redneck yacht clubs, but the intensity of the live version of “King of New Orleans” is a refreshing dose of Louisiana loyalty.
BTE is extra playful during Louisiana gigs, so the group’s show during the second week of this years Jazz Fest should be no different.
Grab a beer, sing along and don’t be ashamed to still be in love with Better Than Ezra. Haters are gonna hate, but nothing beats a deep south BTE party.
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Contact Brian Sibille at [email protected]