[Courtesy of Bill Ebbesen/Wikimedia Commons]

New Orleans Night Shows During Jazz Fest's Second Weekend

01:00 April 28, 2025
By: Georgie Charette

Night Shows During Jazz Fest

Here are top picks for night shows around New Orleans to keep the music going over the weekend of May 1-4.

[Wikimedia Commons]

LCD Soundsystem

Wednesday, April 30 & Thursday, May 1, 8:30 p.m

Saenger Theatre, Tickets Start at $77.50

Electronic indie rock band LCD Soundsystem will take the stage at Saenger Theatre to transform the historic space into a dance haven on April 30 and May 1. With their unique blend of punk, rock, electronic, and dance music, the modern sounds of James Murphy and his crew will draw in fans of all sorts to enjoy the unique dance celebration. From their top hits including "Losing My Edge" and "Daft Punk is Playing at My House" to the indie punk sounds of opening band Gustaf, LCD Soundsystem's distinctive lyricism and hypnotic beats are sure to flow through the evening.

A Dream We Dreamed: A New Orleans Tribute to Phil Lesh

Thursday, May 1, 9 p.m.

The Joy Theater, Tickets Start at $62

This one night only tribute to the late Phil Lesh brings a wide spanning lineup of Grateful Dead lovers and local music legends to honor the legacy of Phil Lesh. Bringing the eclectic rock sounds of the Grateful Dead to life, this show will feature artists from the Meters, Disco Biscuits, Dumpstaphunk, Wolf Bros, and others for a one-of-a-kind experience. Featuring some of the most widely acclaimed rock and funk artists of the past century, the performance set will feature beloved classics along with unique collaborations, making it a can't miss event for Deadheads and music fanatics alike.

[Karl Denson's Website]

Karl Denson's Tiny Universe: Exile on Bourbon Street II "The Bobby Keys Cuts"

Friday, May 2, 9 p.m.

Orpheum Theater, Tickets Start at $39.50

This unforgettable night with acclaimed saxophonist and flutist Karl Denson will feature musicians who have all worked with the Rolling Stones. Known for his funk and jazz expertise, Denson plays with the Rolling Stones and his own band, Karl Denson's Tiny Universe. "The Bobby Keys Cuts" will feature Chuck Leavall, Ivan Neville, Bernard Fowler, and more beloved musicians to celebrate both the rock sounds of the Rolling Stones and the jazz melodies of New Orleans. Expect a genre bending evening where jazz, funk, and rock 'n' roll are twisted into a unique sound and performed with great talent by these widely-acclaimed musicians.

[Bob Minkin]

Melvin Seals & JGB

Friday, May 2, 9:30 p.m. | Saturday, May 3, 9 p.m.

Café Istanbul, Tickets $65

Don't miss a stellar pair of shows presented by Melvin Seals & JGB, plus special guest violinist Mads Tolling, as they wing their way back to Café Istanbul for two rock-solid shows chock full of high-energy jams. The band's New Orleans shows are always phenomenal, and the opportunity to spend a few hours with one of the most powerful and dynamic Hammond B3 players on the planet and his A-list band mates in the wonderfully intimate 400-seat Café Istanbul is a rare opportunity indeed.

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