Day 2 of Jazz Fest Set for Friday, April 24, 2026
Jazz Fest, while an iconic music festival, may not be the perfect venue for every genre of music, as evidenced by Lorde’s performance on the Gentilly stage. The New Zealand artist is undeniably talented, with captivating writing, singing, and dancing skills. However, her set lacked the dynamics that a live band could have provided. With only two musicians mostly relying on programmed parts, the performance felt somewhat disconnected from the large outdoor stage setting. Lorde’s stripped-down, intimate approach to pop music called for a more personal setting to truly appreciate the emotions and vulnerability she conveys through her songs. Despite these challenges, she managed to captivate the audience with hits like “Royals” and “Green Light,” showcasing her artistry and stage presence.
The “Classic New Orleans R&B Revue” segment at Jazz Fest, once a nod to the Ponderosa Stomp era, featured acts that honored the region’s musical legacy. While some seasoned performers have stepped back from the stage, including Al “Carnival Time” Johnson and Clarence “Frogman” Henry, the Dixie Cups and Wanda Rouzan kept the spirit alive. Wanda Rouzan’s fiery renditions of New Orleans classics and the Dixie Cups’ nostalgic covers brought a sense of nostalgia and celebration to the festival. Despite the changing lineup, these artists delivered memorable performances that resonated with the audience and paid homage to the city’s musical heritage.
Dayna Kurtz and Robert Mache’s set at Jazz Fest was marked by poignant moments and powerful messages woven into their songs. Kurtz’s eco-conscious ballad “Dear Rachel Carson” struck a chord with the crowd, emphasizing the interconnectedness of environmental issues and societal values. Touching on political themes through songs like “What Did Jesus Say” and “Don’t Tread On Me,” the duo engaged with the audience on a deeper level, sparking reflection and dialogue. While love songs added a softer touch to the set, the political undertones resonated strongly, showcasing the power of music to provoke thought and inspire change.
GIVERS, a Lafayette-based band known for their eclectic sound and infectious melodies, revisited their debut album In Light at Jazz Fest, delighting fans with a captivating performance. Blending pop sensibilities with Cajun and world music influences, the band delivered a high-energy set that showcased their versatility and emotional depth. Tiffany Lamson’s evocative rendition of “Dust Devils” paid tribute to a late friend, adding a poignant layer to their set. With promises of future reunions, GIVERS left a lasting impression on their audience, reminding them of the band’s unique musicality and emotional resonance.
The sense of camaraderie and shared love for music at Jazz Fest was palpable, with attendees like Harold Berger sharing their longstanding connections to the festival through memorabilia and memories. The diverse lineup of performers, ranging from Nell Simmons-Bradley to Papa Mali, offered a wide range of musical experiences that catered to different tastes and preferences. Whether enjoying a Softshell Crab Po Boy or a refreshing Watermelon Coconut mocktail, festival-goers were treated to a sensory feast that complemented the rich tapestry of sounds and rhythms at Jazz Fest. From country roots to classic New Orleans R&B, the festival showcased a diverse array of musical talent, reinforcing its reputation as a premier cultural event that celebrates the magic of music.