Last night we went for dinner at a place called The Gumbo Shop for some traditional New Orleans food. Heather had a shrimp gumbo which she enjoyed and I had blackened chicken which garlic mash. It came with an orange marmalade creole mustard and horseradish sauce, and soon as I tasted it I smothered the chicken in it, it was amazing.
After dinner we strolled to New Orleans’ Preservation Hall, was established in 1961 to honor one of America’s truest art forms Traditional New Orleans Jazz. Operating as a music venue, a touring band, and a non-profit organization, Preservation Hall continues to uphold New Orleans music and culture.


We saw Leroy Jones and the Preservation Hall Band. They played some traditional jazz, originally jass, and some spirituals. He had a great voice also. As Louis Armstrong said “Preservation Hall, now that’s where you’ll find all of the greats.” New Orleans sense of rhythm, is recognized as Second Line music. And although Louis Armstrong, Olympia Brass Band, Fats Domino, Dr. John, Professor Longhair represent a fusion of this they are all connected by the one element: The Rhythm.


That rolling syncopated feel instantly identifies New Orleans Traditional Brass Band music, Early Jazz, Rhythm and Blues, Soul, Funk, Southern Rock, Mardi Gras Indian music, Modern Brass Band music and many more. New Orleans rhythm is its own thing completely and makes you want to dance.


This morning after breakfast we went for coffee at another traditional New Orleans coffee shop, Cafe Beignet. Although the coffee isn’t as strong as in England I like it.


This afternoon we had a ride on the Creole Queen a paddlewheeler boat. A look back at time in the 1850s where they were the main transport along the Mississippi. Was nice going down the Mississippi whilst the history guide gave us facts about New Orleans and the surrounding area. We stopped at a historical battle site, Chalmette Battlefield sited as the battle of New Orleans. 



The battle was part of the War of 1812 but took place in 1815. British wanted Louisiana and Andrew Jackson halted them it was seen as a big victory and celebrated. Lots of place names in the south owe their names to Jackson, big so called victory it was more a draw, but I am British.


Tonight more music is on the cards with the hope of seeing some brass bands update tomorrow.