7:30 – No Alt-J

7:55 – No Alt- J, sound check has gone on for 25 minutes. Debating leaving for Kendrick Lamar. The crowd is restless, as smoke clouds rise up above the heads of fans. “Pop a molly I’m sweatin’,” becomes the chant as crowds doubt that Alt-J will show.  Perhaps the brits aren’t fit for the dirty south. FYI:  The smooth jazz that’s being played is sexy and enjoyable.

8:00 – No Alt-J

8:13 -  “Sorry for the delay, we’re Alt-J, “ Joe Newman the lead vocalist said. Immediately every worry or regret left the room was diminished as the four known as ∆, began with their song titled “intro.” Jumping directly into “Tessellate” the screams of girls swirled around the harmony as the group move in unison with the clap of a drumstick hitting the cowbell. “Let’s Tessellate.”

 Then something beautiful happened. The Preservation Hall Jazz Band steps out from the shadows onto the stage wearing tuxedoes. From the tuba, to the trombone, the brass men had arrived to provide the Leeds mates some assistance. “This ones called Fitzpleasure,” Gus-Ungar Hamilton lead pianist said.

The jazz band laid down a brass bed as the trombone stirred the bridge. The power felt by the combination of forces, influences and styles was too much to resist. The dance floor became a disco. Only in New Orleans will you see the Mercury Prize winning band play with the legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

 “Breezeblocks” stirred the crowd into a frenzy. “Please don’t go, I’ll eat you whole, I love you so,” chants the audience. Despite the late start, Alt-J undoubtedly delivered.

They continued to play a 45-minute set, covering songs from their album An Awesome Wave while staying true to their unique sound. The quality of style was not spared as these musicians gave it their all.

 The ∆ performance was a testament to the skill of Alt-J and the culture of New Orleans. In a city driven by music, even the blokes from across the pond want to join in.