The legend New Orleans still attracts legions of tourists. Humid nights with soul food and earthy New Orleans sounds and second line music await you there. Our festival offered a simile on a cold November evening in 2002.

Lillian Boutté, musical emissary from New Orleans and her colleague Sammy Rimington showed how it is «when it’s sleepy time down south». Included were a few band members, albeit unknown here, but celebrated in New Orleans, guests in Europe for the first time.

And a special appetizer was served by old master Chris Barber with his 11 member small big band. Blues and Ellington tunes – and maybe a cool ice cream!

Beat Blaser