Local Concerts During Jazz Fest
When it's time for Jazz Fest in New Orleans, there are so many celebrations happening around town, not just at the Fair Grounds. Cafe Istanbul is the perfect venue to enjoy live performances by musicians, actors, poets, and more. Every year during Jazz Fest, Cafe Istanbul hosts live concerts at night to keep the Jazz Fest celebrations rolling. Cafe Istanbul and Poolside Presents have announced their shows for the 2024 Jazz Fest celebration, and you won't want to miss it. From April 25 to May 5, Cafe Istanbul will host a series of events at night to continue with the Jazz Fest festivities.
John "Papa" Gros Band
Thursday, April 25
A New Orleans native, John "Papa" Gros, is kicking off the NightFest celebrations with his band. Mixing funk, jazz, rock, and blues, this band's energy keeps the crowd alive. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., but the show begins at 8 p.m.
Melvin Seals & JGB
Friday, April 26 and Saturday, April 27
Melvin Seals & JGB's music is such a powerful mix of blues, funk, rock, jazz, R&B, and even gospel. With over 30 years in the music industry, Melvin Seals is known to be a performer, artist, and producer. He was a crucial element of the Jerry Garcia Band for 18 years. Melvin Seals & JGB continue to keep the original Jerry Garcia Band alive. Performing two nights in a row, no songs will be played twice. You don't want to miss out on this group, so make sure to buy your tickets in advance for $65 per show. At the door tickets are $70.
Current Futures
Sunday, April 28
Current Futures will feature Robert Walter, Stanton Moore, Eddie Roberts, Chris Stillwell, and Cochemea Gastelum. The show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale for $50, but $60 at the door, so don't wait.
Wil Blades & Friends
Sunday, April 28
Wil Blades & Friends will be featuring Members of Headhunters in their performance. The performance consists of Wil Blades, Donald Harrison Jr., Mike Clark, and Bill Summers. The show begins at 11 p.m. with tickets at $30 in advance or $40 at the door.
James Singleton's MALABAR
Monday, April 29
Based in New Orleans since 1977, James Singleton has collaborated with many musical talents around town and internationally. The show begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are on sale for $25 and $30 at the door.
Hot 8 Brass Band
Tuesday, April 30
The 2022 Grammy-winning, New Orleans own Hot 8 Brass Band will be bringing funk, hip-hop, rap, and bounce music to the concert series. The show will start at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 and $35 at the door, if still available.
Think: X's "Beyond the Wall"
Thursday, May 2
Think:X will be performing "Beyond the Wall," which is their exploration of the musical wonders by Pink Floyd. Think:X interprets Pink Floyd's music like no other, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the iconic rock band's music. The group features Scott Page (sax), Stephen Perkins (drums), Norwood Fisher (bass), Kenny Olson (guitar), Roberta Freeman (vocals), Will Champlin (keys and vocals), and Derek Day (guitar and vocals). The show begins at 9 p.m. Buy tickets in advance for $50 or $60 at the door.
Mathis, Martin & Haas
Thursday, May 2 into May 3
Reed Mathis, Billy Martin, and Brian Haas will be performing with special guest George Porter Jr. The night show begins at 1:00 a.m. with tickets at $50 or $60 at the door.
Axial Tilt's Grateful Dead Celebration
Friday, May 3 and Saturday, May 4
If you are a Grateful Dead lover, head on over to Cafe Istanbul for this special event. Axial Tilt is a group that is inspired by the legendary Grateful Dead. The group features Jeff Mattson, Rob Eaton, Lisa Mackey, Mitch Stein, Skip Vangelas, Dino English, and Wally Ingram, but there will be special guests. They will have a two-day Grateful Dead celebration with five hours of live music. No songs will be repeated, which means you will get to vibe to different Grateful Dead songs for the two nights, which both begin at 10 p.m. All ages are welcome.
Terence Higgins' Funky Party
Sunday, May 5
Jam out with Terence Higgins to classic New Orleans funk and R&B. The show begins at 8 p.m. with tickets at $35 or $40 at the door.
Bonerama's End-Of-Fest Blowout Bash
Sunday, May 5
End the 2024 season of Jazz Fest and NightFest celebrations with Bonerama. This band combines all types of genres, including funk, soul, brass, rock, blues, and more. The show begins at 11 p.m. Tickets are on sale for $25 and $30 at the door.
