UPDATE 9-27-03: I just received The Mamou Playboys' latest release, Grammy-nominated Bon Réve, and all I can say is WOW! This is a fine piece of work, mainly a tribute CD to the great musicians of yesterday, such as Lawrence Walker and Betlon Richard, but with a few original pieces, as well :-) I love how the entire CD is done in French, as the majority of their CDs are, and how unique it is. It's such a great combination of Louisiana music :-) I want to say it is my favorite CD, but that's not fair to the others of theirs that I adore *grin*
UPDATE 12-28-03: It's 2:45 a.m. now, and I can't sleep. Wondering why? *lol* Well, I'm gonna tell you. I'm wired up....flying high in the clouds. I feel like I'm dreaming, actually, and that it really didn't happen, but......SRMP came to my neck of the woods tonight (er....last night, actually), and I was there! All I keep saying now is OH MY GOD! I'm thrilled beyond words, and I still can't believe it! I met the multi-talented, golden-voiced Sam Broussard first. The rest of the band was delayed a few minutes, and I sat there anxiously waiting and watching the goings on. The next member I saw through the door was none other that Steve himself, and I about died! A friend of my daughter's took us up to meet him, and I actually thought I was going to faint *lol* I felt like a queen, no doubt! I met the very multi-talented, golden-voiced David Greely later on, too :-)
SRMP are like 24k gold in my house, and despite having many other Cajun/Zydeco CD's and many favorites, the only ones played 95% of the time are by SRMP! (I even play their CDs while I work, when I'm not listening to an oldies radio station. Being an MT, it's hard to sit here and try to transcribe with SRMP playing on the side of me, but.....I'm addicted *grin*) To have the opportunity to see this band live and in person is just PRICELESS!
When the gig started, I was in heaven. Words cannot describe how I felt for those four hours. Everything was just perfect. The music was so loud (the acoustics in that dance hall were beyond excellent) that I'm still hearing echoes through my ears, and I can truthfully say that I LOVED IT (my living room stereo isn't loud enough when I'm listening to my favorites, and it is a powerful one--the acoustics stink in that room)!!!!! And, OH MY GOD, they were friggin' AWESOME. Every song played was beyond awesome, and to see and hear this in person is a dream come true for me. I asked Steve to play Bayou Noir for me, and he did :-) And, OH MY GOD, seeing and hearing Steve play the fiddle was out of this world. WOW, he's fantastic!!!! So many of my very favorites were played tonight, and I was just in heaven the whole time. Tonight will forever be embedded in my heart and soul, and I plan to re-live it over and over again. I could hear that this band played with their hearts and souls (so much emotion put into their music) on my CD's, but to see and hear it in person was such a thrill and definitely PRICELESS.
What a way to end a year!!!!! :-) My only regrets are that I stupidly left my camera and my new CD (so they could sign it) at home. Oh well! Maybe next time....
A huge thank you to SRMP for dropping by our city, and please come back soon!!!! :-)
UPDATE 1-15-04: Their schedule shows they'll be back on 1-23 (I have to work that night and the following morn, though; so I have to miss going) and again on 2-14 (and darn, if I don't have to work that day, too, but I could still go--it's my daughters who can't go)!
UPDATE 2-15-04: Well, I just got back from seeing SRMP again, and I'm in heaven :-) I wasn't supposed to go tonight, but my daughter surprised me early in the day with the news that they weren't working tonight after all and we were going -- part of my St. Valentine Day presents :-) I couldn't wait to get off work! She also surprised me with a beautiful card, a musical water globe (heart shaped) with butterflies inside, and a beautiful hot pink and white rose :-) SRMP put on another fabulous show. I got a little "brave" tonight and actually danced some :-) We had a whole bunch of people sitting with us, plus we met the nicest people from Eunice, who happen to be friends of SRMP :-) The whole band autographed my new CD of theirs, plus I got to hug SR and kiss him (on the cheek!!!) :-) And, oh God, he was nice enough to let me touch one of his accordions! I just about died. We also had a special treat when Steve invited Sean Vidrine up to play the accordion. WOW! Was he ever totally awesome! His band will be there on March 26, and we are planning to go! SRMP returns the next night :-) What a night to remember again :-)
UPDATE 2-23-04: Yesterday, the girls and I took a road trip down I-10 to the Atchafalaya Basin (Henderson Levee) for Mardi Gras Sunday at Angelle's Whiskey River, and I'm sitting here still reeling from the massive party. I'm totally deaf from the fantastic music, and I'm beyond tired and had no desire to work today *lol* We left here at 1, grabbed fast food in town, and hauled it to Henderson. Radona insisted we drive her car so we could have CD access. I prayed the whole way there *lol* Seeing the levee was a real trip for all of us. We had to drive over it to get to Angelle's, and I freaked out cause I felt like we were going to fall *lol* Old age is not becoming *lol* We made pretty good time considering we had a lot of traffic to deal with, and we were behind someone on Main Street in Henderson who was driving 20 mph! Ugh! The place was pretty crowded when we got there at 3, but we got a table. Our friends from Eunice were way late getting there, so the band, Balfa Toujours, had long been playing when they did arrive.
The band, Balfa Toujours, was absolutely friggin' fantastic. I managed to take a few shots, but I couldn't see much of anything the whole time they were up. They played about four hours without stopping once. I'm definitely gonna to have buy some CDs :-)
When SRMP came up to play, we got right in front of the band and stood there the whole time. If the house was rockin' before with the previous band, it was just a mild taste in comparison to how SRMP rocked the house. Man alive, they were beyond friggin' awesome! We all laughed and cut up, and I took about four rolls of film. Standing right there was so different than sitting away, cause I could hear each instrument being played separately instead of it being all "together." I know, that sounds strange, but it's the only words I can find to try to explain it. (I'm suffering a brain vacation today.) Of course, I came unglued at every seam during the majority of the songs; and I really lost it during Creole Stomp. At one point, I heard what sounded like "a steel guitar", and I looked up to see it was Sam playing his guitar. I was in complete awe over this. I asked him after their gig how he did that and told him it was fantastic. Being that I love a steel so much, this really impressed me to no end. WOW! Sam proved one does not need a steel guitar to have the sound!!! All the guys are just so fantastic and awesome. I hated it when Steve said "goodnight," but the crowd started begging for more. So, they came up and belted out that beautiful acapella, The Savoy Song, and I about lost it. They ended the night with their fifth rendition of The Mardi Gras Song (which I still hearing screaming in my head)!
All of our fun came abruptly to an end when we got in the car, and Radona checked her cell phone messages. There was one on there from her boyfriend's roommate telling her to call her boss. She did, and her boss told her she didn't know why he did that, but.....she did have something bad to tell her. She then proceeded to tell her that a good friend of hers had been in a fatal car accident the night before :-( She was so hysterical (this is the second friend in three months to be killed), and I told her there was no way she could drive like that. She insisted, however, and I was in a panic till we stopped in Jennings where I took over--it was raining, and she was on the cell phone talking and crying, and I was scared to death we'd wreck :-( I hate her car with a passion, but I managed to get us home safely. We arrived home about 1:20.
She was supposed to drop my film off today, and I was gonna pick them up tonight, but, with the visitation at the funeral home and being all upset, she drove right passed Wal-Mart and forgot. So, she said she'll get them done tomorrow. The funeral is tomorrow, though :-( (Josh was killed thanks to a drunk driver who stopped his vehicle just over the top of the bridge and was passed out cold. Josh couldn't see him and ran into the rear.)
Anyway, we're supposed to go and see Damon Troy in two weeks, and then we'll see SRMP again at the end of March when they return here :-) I can't wait! :-)
UPDATE 02-24-04: I just looked at all my pictures, and I think I'm in heaven. Every single shot came out sooooo good. Believe me, it was the film and the speed I bought and not the photographer (moi). I guess it pays to buy expensive film and a higher speed *lol* I will scan these ASAP and put them up. They are fabulous :-)
Okay, here's what I decided to scan of the 100 pics I have :-) I wish I had the time to scan them all!
UPDATE 03-06-04: I just got home from seeing Damon Troy & Louisiana Beat. Talk about a nice young man! He came up and said hi to Judy (Chassity's mom), and then he shook hands with Daryth and April. When he turned to me, I shook his hand and told him this was my first time seeing him in person, and he bent down and gave me a big ol hug :-) I was so shocked and said "Oh cher, bebe!" He repeated it loudly and said "Oh yeah." Talk about a cutie pie!!! It wasn't long after when the gig started, and they were really good! Damon can play a mean accordion (or two), and what a show he puts on....he definitely plays with his heart! He was dancing all over the stage! I bought the two CDs that I didn't have while I was there. Chassity and I shot a lot of pictures, and I'll get them scanned as soon as I have them developed. When I do, they'll be @ pics :-) We left before the whole show was done, but I hope to see him again soon.
UPDATE 3-28-04: Arrived home not long ago from another trip to Wayne & Layne's to see my very favorite band again (SRMP, of course) :-) I was in withdrawal since I hadn't seen them in a month, and they were totally awesome, as usual. I had a great time, again. SR came right up to me to say hello and shake my hand--HOW SWEET!! :-) Then he said hi to my girls with big hugs, and off he went to start the show. He shocked me when he announced "The Life I thought I Wanted for Cee & The Girls." :-) How sweet!!!!! They rocked the house, of course. I took about four rolls of film and will get them developed ASAP. Of course, they will be @ pics once I get them back and scan them :-) We ended up with some new friends from Austin sitting with us and had a blast talking to them :-)
We ended up having to sit in the parking lot for 30 minutes before we could drive off, though. Picture this, I'm in the driver's seat of Daryth's car (a car she just got--an Audi--and I never drove before). I didn't know where the ignition was (as I'm nearly blind, especially in the dark), so Daryth leans over me on my right side and puts the key in. The key wouldn't turn. So, April leans over the back seat on my left, and none of us could get that key to turn. There's an anti-theft device on the car, but this was ridiculous *lol* This was as comical as the day is long, and we were laughing our butts off. Finally, I moved them off of me and got out of the car, to which Daryth got in the driver's seat and started the darn thing right away! Strange. I retook my place at the wheel and drove off. We stopped for breakfast at Pitt Grill and sat there and laughed hysterically over our evening and the antics that went on. I won't be that stupid again, though....I had two Malibus on an empty stomach :-( I stayed dizzy all night long, but I did have a great time enjoying some of the greatest music ever and dancing :-)
SRMP returns to town next Saturday evening for a two-hour show to help celebrate "Sulphur's Birthday," and we will be there, no doubt. My youngest daughters and my granddaughter can't wait to see SRMP, and that is all they have talked about for weeks now :-) My son, unfortunately, is not interested and would rather go to the Sadie Hawkins dance at SHS. His loss...... *lol* See ya later.....
UPDATE 4-03-04: Sulphur's 90th birthday celebration was absolutely wonderful. We got there around 4, and Geno Delafosse and French Rockin' Boogie put on a great show! They were rockin'. Around 6, they started the "party" with introduction of prize winners, beauty queens, city dignitaries, and then 90 people representing 90 years (1914 through 2004) were introduced to the public. That was so special and brought tears to my eyes!!!! Then, they had a HUGE birthday cake (a white layered tiered "cake" filled with tons of blue and gold cupcakes). SRMP was introduced next and started their show. They were as good as ever :-) First thing was David belted out "Happy Birthday" to Sulphur, and that was such a special treat! The man really has a terrific voice!!! My aunt and uncle came for a time and enjoyed the show. Radona and Jesse left early--surprisingly, she was bored. My son ended up having to stay (cause he spent his dance money there), and he was not happy in the least *lol* He was bored the whole time, then Amity got bored. Taylor had a blast for a time...Chassity even sat her on the stage, and she was screaming for more :-) She fell asleep halfway into the show. Holli had a good time, too, despite her severe accident a few days ago and her face being all stitched up, bruised, and swollen :-( I had a good time for the first hour, too (besides the kids being obnoxious, my back was downright killing me). And, to make matters worse, after the last song, I turned to head to the van, and for some strange reason, my right foot would not move. As I looked down to see what was wrong, I fell straight back ever so gracefully. Chassity was immediately standing over me, then three adorable firemen came running up. I was laughing my derriere off, but it was embarrassing *lol* My right foot stepped right into one of those rubber street cones, and that is the reason I fell. Luckily, I didn't get hurt at all. One of the firemen said that was the best dance move he had seen all night *lol* My son will never let me live that one down. He said "Now that was funny." I'm assuming that was the best fun he had all night long! *lol* SRMP won't be back till some time in May. I'll have to wait and see what the date is and decide whether or not I can go (or if I even want to go *lol*). I didn't take a whole of pics, but I will get them developed probably tomorrow after I get off work..... They will be posted ASAP @ pics! See ya!
UPDATE 5/18/04: Went back to W&L's on Friday night despite all the nasty weather. We got there early to get our favorite spot and to shoot some pool. SRMP arrived around 8, but the place was nearly empty. They didn't even start to play till 9:30 and then took nearly an hour-long break before they had played for a full hour. They broke two more times before they finally stopped at 1, too. I was too tired to really enjoy myself, and for some reason, they played more waltzes than anything. That choked me up to no end, and I left there so depressed :-( Don't get me wrong, I love a good waltz, and believe me, they have plenty, but too much of them do make me sad :-( Ah well....they played their hearts out again, as usual, and were fabulous. They'll be back in June at Burton Coliseum for a McNeese event. We hope to go. If not, it'll be back to the great W&L's in July. See ya.
UPDATE 6/19/04: Well, we didn't go to Burton Coliseum after all. We had planned it right up to last night, and then nobody except me wanted to go. So, I forgot about it and just planned to relax/watch movies. I was tired anyway. Well, all day, I had everyone begging me to go :-( That's about right! *lol* Oh well....
UPDATE 7/24/04: I got home a few minutes ago from W&L's for another of SRMP's gigs, and OMG, this had to be the best time we ever had there! Needless to say, SRMP was better than ever (if that's possible), and everyone in the place was having a blast and cutting up like a bunch of fools (me probably the worst one of all *lol*). Too bad I didn't bring my camera this time. The ladies from Austin were there again, plus our friends from Eunice came in, and there were five of us. It was all just PRICELESS! It feels good to get crazy and act like a fool every month or two *lol* I can't remember this guy's name, bur he came up towards the end with a "slide guitar" and played a few songs with the band. This sounded just like a pedal steel guitar, and I was mesmerized. I fixated on him, and it brought me to tears with thoughts of my dad :-( This young man was just awesome! It just doesn't get any better than this!!!! Till next time....SRMP returns on August 21 :-)
UPDATE 8/22/04: It was another great night at W&L's. The guys were awesome, as always, and they even played a few "new" songs that I hadn't them play before (like Jolie Blon and The Back Door). I "marked out" big time! We snapped a few more photos, and I'll get them developed and posted ASAP. Unless their schedule changes, they won't be back till mid October :-( Till next time......
UPDATE 10/23/04: SRMP rolled back into town last night after missing in September, and it was another great time for all. We had small party to help celebrate Radona and Louis' marriage with lots of friends and family. My brother was able to join me this time, and that is the first time in 18 years that we have been "out" together, the last being in November 1986 at the VFW hall to celebrate our mom's marriage. So, that was special :-) Anyway, the guys were awesome, as always, and played their hearts out. One song they played, that is on their live CD, is the Perrodin Two Step, which I have by several others and adore, but when I heard SRMP play this, I about lost the rest of my mind! Whew! That is, by far, the best rendition I've heard yet! David also sang Little Black Eyes (or close) again, and I about die when I hear it. God, that is just too awesome! Between me and Radona, we shot four rolls of film, some of which I'll be posting soon @ SRMP photos. We'll see them again on November 20 when they return! I can't wait! Till next time......
UPDATE 11/21/04: SRMP were back last night at Wayne & Layne's for another rockin' time--needless to say, they were better than ever :-) It was just me, my two girls, my son-in-law, and my brother for the most part, but our friends from Eunice and Lafayette (was Austin) were all there, too, and we all had a great time. I didn't take a lot of pictures last night, but I will scan and post some of what I did take when I get them developed, and they can be found @ SRMP photos. I'm anxiously waiting on a "new" CD to come out, and I hope it's soon. I just can't get enough! :-) Till next month....
UPDATE 12/19/04: SRMP were back last night at Wayne & Layne's for another rockin' time--needless to say, they were super:-) It was me, my two girls, my son-in-law, and three friends of Daryth's, and our friends from Eunice and Lafayette were all there, too. We all had a great time. I used my new digital camera last night and took tons of pics. I will post some, and they can be found @ SRMP photos. The first big highlight of my evening was seeing Homer LeJeune on the dance floor, and I got a big hug :-) I snapped a few shots of him, too :-) The next highlight was when David belted out "Please Come Home For Christmas--that was totally priceless." When I stopped screaming long enough, I lost my mind and cried---my poor mama can't come home for Christmas :-( Till next month....
UPDATE 01/15/05: SRMP were back last night at Wayne & Layne's for another rockin' time--needless to say, they were beyond super :-) I can't say it enough...it just doesn't get any better than that!!!!! :-) I had never seen the place that packed before, either, but it got a tad bit crazy a few times, including a little cat fight at the end of the evening, some guy raising a girl's shirt and putting his head under it, and another guy "dirty dancing" with a bar stool (of all things) in the middle of the dance floor (not a pretty sight to behold, for sure)! I took a few pics here and there but nothing to post this time. We ended our night with an interesting hunt for breakfast. Tradition is we always go to Pitt Grill for breakfast before going home. I waited outside for Daryth and a friend of hers for a good while before I drove around to see if they were still in the back of the building, but they were no where in sight, so I just got on the highway to go on ahead. Then my cell phone rings, and it's Daryth asking me where I am *lol* So, we played hide and seek, too *lol* We keep yakking, and when I turn to go to PG, I tell her that it's closed. She then tells me she forgot to inform me that they moved! Aargh! So, when I turn to leave, she cuts me off, stops, and comes over to me laughing like mad. What nuts we are! So, we have to go back South to turn around and go back North. We get to PG and go in only to find out they don't have the usual buffet cause something was wrong with the "system" or something like that :-( I guess they are still working out the kinks in their new home! Geez, at this point, I was fit to be tied. So, we decided to go back South and hit The Waffle House---everyone sitting in there except two people were just at W&L's, so that was a trip. The didn't take a check or a credit card, so I had to send Daryth to my bank to get some more cash, and that was just beyond pathetic! I almost said, "forget it and let's go," but..... We didn't get our breakfast till around 2:30 a.m., but I did have a nice conversation with a young guy while there (another W&L-er) and found out he deejays the early morn Cajun radio show every Saturday here in town. I think it was 3:15 a.m. when I finally got home, and by this time, I was wired, so I was up till after 4. I'm really getting too old for this *@#% *lol* I had been up for 22 hours at that point :-( I felt so drunk and did not have even a sip of alcohol *lol* Anyway, I'm rested now and anxious for the next gig on 2/5--just one problem....I have weekend call from 2-8 p.m. :-( I will be there before the show starts, though, I hope. Till next time....
UPDATE 02/05/05: SRMP were back again last night. Yes, I know, I wrote the 5th before, only because they played "musical dates" with their next gig at good ol W&L's...it started out as the 4th, SR announced the 5th at the last gig, as well as their schedule had been changed to the 5th, and then it was changed back to the 4th soon after and stuck there *grin* Anyway, despite how tired and sleepy I was after working all day long (overly tired and sleepy, I should say) and fighting the crappy system I have to work on in the evening, I had a blast. My brother, his daughter, my girls, my son-in-law, and a few of their friends were all there, along with our good friends M and J from Texas, and our new good friend, Derek :-) My brother and I made history when his daughter called me over to take over dancing with him to New Orleans Ladies.....in all these years, we had never danced together! It was a very sentimental moment. We danced a few more times after that, too, even "two stepping." My legs felt like rubber when we left there *lol* SR announced their new CD will be here in September. Damn, without even thinking I commented, "So long?" I'm so anxious to hear what's next, and September seems way too long off to wait, but I have no choice, much to my dismay :-( Then he made me sad when he introed the next song, Little Black Eyes, and said it wasn't on the new CD :-( I was so hoping it would be....nobody, and I mean NOBODY, does that song better than David!! I hated it, as usual, when the gig was over. I then took my brother and niece home and was home by 2 and fast asleep by 2:30. I'm still too tired for words, but.....I love my one night a month! :-) SRMP will be back on March 5, unless their schedule changes again, and we will be there, no doubt! :-)
UPDATE 03/06/05: Well, no SRMP last night, and I'm depressed *lol* For whatever reason, they removed their gig on March 5 from the schedule. I needed my "fix," but I'll just have to settle for listening to the stereo, unless, of course, we decide to take a road trip soon. If not, we'll see them next month on the 2nd, according to their schedule, and if mine permits.
UPDATE 04/17/05: We saw SRMP on April 2 for another great night at Wayne & Layne's. I got some shots with my digital camera, but I haven't even messed with them yet to see if any are good enough to post. The free-lance photographer (a distant cousin) ended up borrowing my camera for the majority of the night, though, cause his flash broke, and he gave me this gorgeous black and white 8 x10 of Steve in return for the favor. Steve signed it personally to me, so I'll treasure it forever :-) Anyway....don't know when they will be back as their schedule doesn't say yet. I hope it's soon. With all the crap going on since then (don't ask, as it'll make your skin crawl), I definitely need to go out and enjoy their great gig! To say it has been stressful around here is definitely an understatement.... :-(
UPDATE 05/01/05: Unlike the norm, this is NOT an update on SRMP, unfortunately. They are not on the schedule for May, and I'm needing a "fix" :-( According to my sources, they will return to town on June 4, and by that time, I'll be having withdrawal symptoms :-( Yes, I confess, I'm an addict, and I'm proud of it! *lol* Anyway, last Saturday, a bunch of people went out to celebrate JR's friend's 18th birthday, and his mom insisted I go--she would not take no for an answer. Honestly, I didn't want to. My daughter said it best when she said "seeing SRMP will be the ONLY time you see my mom in a bar." It's just so true! So, I turned the stereo way up with SRMP blasting away to try and put me in the mood to go out. It worked until we got there, and I heard the band. UGH! It's pretty bad when you prefer the crap the deejay plays between sets over the live band....but I did. This was a local band, and they were beyond "wild" and acting really nasty at times. The music they played was a mixture of rock to zydeco to country, and it was less than average. I also didn't care for the "club," either. It's supposed to be for the older crowd, but I think I was the oldest person there for the longest time :-( I tried to make the best of it with watching everyone else cut up like crazy, and I even danced quite a bit, but on top of hating the band and the club, I didn't feel good and felt nauseous at times. I was really glad to get home where I "got sick" immediately and then felt better...and we assume it was food poisoning, as my SIL also got nauseous as did a friend of my daughter's. I took a lot of photos but will only post a couple of them. I can't wait till June 4!!!!!! :-)
UPDATE 06/09/05: Well, another night at W&L's has come and gone, and I wish I had a lot of positive things to say about the whole night, but I don't *lol* I think I fried a few of the last brain cells I had left that night. For whatever reason, it was hotter than hell in there on our side of the building--we had absolutely NO cold air. The atmosphere was really tense, as well, for some reason. Maybe it was cause we were all so MISERABLE from near heat strokes? SRMP had one of those nights where the "norm" was nowhere to be found--lots of waltzes and songs they normally don't play--songs that just aren't the norm and just aren't kickin'! Needless to say, they were great, as usual, but we just didn't have the fun like we normally do. They usually always start the show with two songs together (La Pointe Au Pins and Mamou Playboy Special), and you know it's going to be a fabulous evening, cause those two songs really get us all going. Well, one time (last May), they started with something else, and the evening was "different." Saturday night was just like it....started off with something else, and the rest of the night was a repeat of history :-( My nephew joined us that night, so we were a crowd with just us. That place ended up being packed to the hilt which didn't help the heat in there at all. I did take a lot of pics but haven't touched them yet. I'll post them one of these days, I guess. I'm really disappointed in my digital camera's inability to take primo photos in the club. For some strange reason, I end up with "bubbles" all over most of my photos, and it really irritates me. I'm seriously thinking of investing in a bigger and better digital (mainly in anticipation of the birth of my new grand baby come January 2006) and see what happens. Anyway, it was a LONG (REALLY LONG) evening, and I didn't get back home till 3 a.m. where I literally had to peel my clothes off (from being soaked). I'm serious....they were so salty, it was like I had been swimming in the great salt lake in Utah *lol* (Been there and done that before!) I'm not sure when SRMP will be back, but I was told it might be in August. We will be there, no doubt, but I hope the a/c is working in there next time. In the meantime, we have plans to hit the CFMA festival in Lake Charles in the middle of next month to hopefully finally see Jackie Caillier and the Cajun Cousins-- Yay!!! Then, at the end of the month, we hope to catch Jamie Bergeron and the Kickin Cajuns at the Marshland festival, also in Lake Charles--Yay again :-) Right now, there is just no better song than "Shake It, Shake It, Baby." I know, it's not sung in French, but it's still one FABULOUS tune that really gets a person going!!!!! I will update with the happenings if we get to go to either or both! Later......
UPDATE 07/16/05: WOW is all I can say about going to the CFMA fest today to see the one and only Jackie Caillier and the Cajun Cousins. Our timing was impeccable...we walked in, found our way towards the bandstand, stopped to buy their new CD, and then heard their introduction. The next hour and a half was just incredible. Every song they played was great. It was great to finally get to see and meet Jackie in person :-) I just listened to the new CD (to complete to my collection on this group), and it's pretty good, even though a couple of songs are English :-( Oh well...they are still great :-) Jackie autographed the inside cover, too, which makes it priceless :-) I also bought a CD by Camey Doucet and bought the CFMA Hall of Fame (Lake Charles Chapter) book, which is absolutely great, and the legendary Phil Menard signed it on his bio page :-) WOW! I have a few pics of Jackie to post soon, and you can see them @ photos :-) We ended the day by celebrating my niece's birthday at a local Mexican restaurant. I only had two drinks (a mudslide and a pina colada), and despite sitting there three hours, I came home and passed out cold *lol* I think my brother told the bartender to "fix me up real good." *grin* I found out that those two drinks were the equivalent of FIVE :-( I was pretty much loaded, but it was a fun time! ha ha Anyway....till next time.....
UPDATE 07/31/05: Man, am I ever tired! *lol* We went to the Marshland Festival yesterday for a few hours. We arrived just after 2 and saw Gary Gremillion for a time. I was pretty impressed with his voice--WOW! They were mainly country, but towards the end of their set, he called up a young man with an accordion who set the place on fire. Nobody was dancing till the Cajun music started :-) Jamie Bergeron and the Kickin' Cajuns started around 3:15, and quite honestly, I was not so overwhelmed with that set. They were good and all but just not what I expected to hear. A local band (swamp pop and rock) came up next, and I stayed outside most of the time. Jamie did another set from 5:45 to 7, and man alive, they were beyond awesome, just really "kickin it up." By this time, I was pretty beat from standing there so long, but when they played my favorite song, "Shake It, Shake It, Baby," I came unglued. I play it nonstop from the CD, but hearing it in person was fabulous. I bought a 5x7 of Jamie from Toby of Funnee-Dot-Biz, and he had Jamie sign it for me :-) The local band came up again next with a local "Elvis" impersonator, John Ieyboub, and I was in complete awe over him. He put on a fantastic show, and he sang so much like the real Elvis that it just wasn't funny. It gave me goose bumps! By this time, there were TONS of people there in anticipation of another local band who has a big following, and I'm yet to figure out WHY. The mostly play swamp pop and country but call themselves a Cajun band, because the lead singer "uses an accordion on occasion to country or swamp pop" but rarely does French songs--oh so wrong, IMO. The crowd got really obnoxious and rude with pushing, shoving, and blocking walkways (including walking right over my granddaughter), and we were all ready to just get the hell out of there. We did see the band and hear a few songs, and they put on some great "show" with dancing around the stage (and all that dancing and jumping around on stage is just crap, IMO), but it's not Cajun or Zydeco for real . Of the few songs I heard, one was remotely in either category, and it was a copy of Jamie Bergeron's "Shake It, Shake It, Baby." Granted, the accordionist can play well, but he ain't Jamie, and the song lacked the talent and fireworks that Jamie and his band put into it. Richard LeBouef and Two Step were to come on next, but I could not stay any longer. Besides, I knew he was going to play that stupid (and I mean STUPID) monkey song, and I would have thrown up. It really, REALLY irritates me to no end that someone as talented as this group lowers themselves to recording/playing such as stupid song. The "song" grates my last nerve! I also hate "Who Stole My Chicken," but I can at least tolerate it cause of the music. Anyway, I enjoyed seeing Dave and Mike Soileau, too, our local Cajun Radio deejays on 1470, and I loved seeing and hearing JB and TKC :-) The cutest part of the day was when I asked my granddaughter if she wanted to go see JB and the Kickin' Cajuns with us, and she said "Yeah, if they sing good!" *lol* A few photos will come soon. Next week, it's back to Wayne and Layne's for the best of the best, SRMP, to help celebrate my BD (a week early, but what the heck) :-) We are supposed to go to Casa first and then hit the club. My only regret is that I have to work "morning weekend call" the next day :-( See ya next week......
UPDATE 08/06/05: Man alive, it just can't get any better than last night! I know, I always say that, but it's the truth. Just when I think SRMP can't get any better, they go and prove me wrong! :-) I think my brother said it best when he said that was the best time we ever had at Wayne and Layne's (and believe me, we have had some good times there). It was awesome, and I can't wait till next time! Our evening started early in the day, though, with an early birthday celebration at Casa for a couple of hours. I left there feeling no pain after two delicious mudslides :-) I'll see about posting some photos from there, too. I ended up crying my head off (which I didn't want to do so as not to have mascara everywhere) when I read the cards I received, and I got some really lovely gifts. I was still feeling no pain when we got to the club, and I promised myself NO more alcohol. I'm such a cheap drunk *lol* So, I stuck to diet coke/iced water most of the night, although I did have half of a light beer. It was hot in there again :-( Anyway, we had a blast shooting pool while anticipating the arrival of our favorite band :-) Steve came up and said hi right off, and we talked about how "it had been just too long since last time." Later on, I was totally floored when he came up and wished me a happy birthday, then proceeded to hug and kiss me :-) I couldn't say anything but thank you. Then, my niece had us take a pic together (PRICELESS). I think that is when I realized that she had something to do with ratting me out *lol* When the gig started, we all had a blast! Somewhere in there, I made a comment to Steve about a song he had just played being "hot" and he said, "You really like that old stuff." I said "Yep, I'm old school," but I fibbed a bit....I don't just like it, I absolutely positively LOVE it! :-) At one point, I'm leaving the dance floor, and I hear Steve talking about a special birthday in the house and froze. My daughters and my niece pushed me out in the middle of the dance floor where I must have turned every shade of blush there is *lol* What Steve said about me is PRICELESS to me, and I value that so much. Then, they sang Happy Birthday to me :-) When I asked Steve when the new CD release date is, I got numb...September 13, the day my mom died nearly a year ago now. I hated to see the night end, but I did have to work in the morning and had already been up since 5 a.m. that morning! So, we leave there and decided to stop at Pitt Grill for breakfast cause my niece was hungry. It was HILARIOUS when we got there. My niece and my nephew drove my brother's car, and he rode with me. As we were walking towards the doors, my brother nonchalantly looks up and over, points at his kids, and says, "Oh look, dumb and dumber!" I about fell with uncontrollable laughter. My niece says, "And, what does that make you?" I couldn't help but answer, "Father of dumb and dumber." *lol* Needless to say, we walked in that placed laughing. We had just sat down when we see Derek, our local deejay on 1310, walk in. He sat down with us, and we had a blast talking and cutting up. I got home after 2 a.m. and didn't get to sleep till after 3:30. Needless to say, I was in a coma when the clock rang at 7:30, but it was worth every bit of it :-) Oh, as a side note, we finally discovered the mystery behind the bubbles. My daughter's camera also did it, and then it hit me, the strobe lights!!!!! *lol* Till next time.....
UPDATE 10/20/05: We made it to W&L's Friday night, October 14, for another wonderful gig by SRMP, and after that mean old witch Rita, it was good to be there and almost feel like normal again. I immediately bought Dominos, too, and couldn't wait to get home to hear it. I was pretty surprised to hear that I had already heard most of the songs on there already and just didn't know they were going to be on the new CD :-) I really love the CD cover and the booklet. I have loved seeing Elise grow and am in awe how much she twins her dad. It was also neat seeing Steve's parents, Kevin's parents, Brazos' parents (he looks just like his mom), and seeing David's daughter. The evening was LONG but fun, though I missed my brother and his family being there. It was also my mom's "BD," and that didn't help my depression :-( My niece has moved to VA now but will be home for Christmas, so she and Taylor may be able to join us on December 23 for the next gig, or as Steve said "Christmas Eve eve." *lol* How I adore that guy! He's the most awesome accordionist AND singer out there! The talent he has is unreal! I just come apart when he plays anything but most especially a two-step, and the faster the better. He played one song that was totally off the chart, and I know I saw some fire coming out of his accordion *lol* When he finished, I saw him shake his hands! That had to hurt! I know the feeling in ways--when I can concentrate well enough to just type like a demon without stopping, I tend to shake my hands after, as well. David sang "Little Black Eyes" again, and I just about die when I hear it. I hope they eventually record that song. It is the best rendition I've heard! Anyway, when the gig was up, we stopped to have breakfast at Waffle House and then came home where I plugged up Dominos immediately. It's a dual disc, and I was pretty frantic cause the CD would not read. When I turned it around, it played just fine. It seems my disc is confused, and the CD is actually the DVD and vice versa *lol* The DVD is pretty awesome, too, and I love it. This CD really has surpassed any expectations I had--it's downright super. There are two songs on there that I could easily pass up, though--Marie had Died is eerie, and though it is well done, it's just too morbid, and I'm not big on the acapella song about the prison. My very favorite two-step is Waxia, but I also adore River of Time, Ardoin Medley, Elise, Dominos, and Ramificajuns. In waltzes, my fav is Wait Till I Finish Crying, but I also love Land of Strangers, though it brings me to tears :-( I'm here to testify that you don't always have to be in a strange land to feel all alone :-( How I hate that feeling! I haven't stopped listening to the CD since and am slowly wearing it out *grin* If I post any photos, they will be on the pic page! My son turns 18 on the 28th, and we are planning to go back to see Kevin Naquin and the Ossun Playboys for the first time, and I can't wait. This will be interesting! See yall soon.
UPDATE 10/31/05: Well, we didn't make it on the 28th, and I heard I missed one hell of a great gig from KNOP :-( Wayne told me the placed was packed beyond capacity and the band was friggin' awesome. They will be back, and we will definitely go then! My son ended up having to work, despite the fact that we had planned this for months :-( So, we went on the 29th to see Damon Troy/Louisiana Beat, and it ended up just being four of us there, much to my dismay. We shot pool, pigged out on Wayne's famous poboys, and had a blast joking around with a few friends and a few of the road crew before the band started. The place was packed at first, though, and then thinned out before midnight. Granted, they are good at what they do, but I could have easily passed up going, as it's just not for me. We left at midnight, stopped to eat breakfast, and came home. Plus, Damon was really RUDE to my daughter. He was blocking the walkway towards the bathroom during their break, and despite her saying excuse me, he told her she could go another way. He was too busy flirting, I assume! When she told me this, I got upset. What a jerk to tell her that, especially when she was about to bust with her huge with-child belly! We left right after that when they started playing again, and as far as I'm concerned, I won't go back to see him again! I did get a few pictures of Damon and my three cohorts, and my son shot one of me. I'm counting the days till December 23, and I can't wait! I think I have worn out Dominos already! What an awesome band! :-)
UPDATE 12/24/05: I'm still feeling the effects from our trip to Wayne and Layne's last evening, and I'm totally beat up and tired--I'm really getting too old for all this *lol* My day started off at 5 a.m. as usual for work, then the kids started showing up for our Christmas celebration. We opened gifts (of which I got some really nice gifts that included Care Bear slippers, White Diamonds with a collectible teddy bear, a Black and Decker rice pot, a primo car vac, opal silver ring and earring set, and a collectible musical Cheer Bear "August" ring box), ate dinner of okra gumbo, and visited a good while before heading out to the club for a big party with all of my family and extended family--oh man alive, we are crowd with just us, for sure *lol* Our gang included me, Radona, James, Daryth, Contina, Jeremy, Missy, Tony, Julie, Tee-Paul, Caycie, and Taylor, plus our good friends M and J came with a friend of J's, as well as a friend of my brother's family, Jake, and James' sister, Lisa, and her husband. The band arrived minus David with Steve's cousin, Joel Savoy, standing in, but they didn't start playing till 9:30. They were awesome, as always, but there was a void with David missing. David broke his hand about six weeks ago before the cruise :-( I sure did miss hearing his beautiful voice and his golden fiddling, but Joel did a fantastic job with his talent. The placed was packed nearly beyond capacity, and everyone seemed to have a good time. I was pretty much oblivious to my surroundings not long after we got there. I decided to order a Malibu with Pineapple and cherry juice, and the bartender ended up giving me a double. God, it was smooth and delicious, and it his me like a ton of bricks *lol* It was so good that I ended up having two more before the night was over :-) This was the first time I met Julie and Taylor, and they are AWESOME. I got a very special present from Caycie and Taylor--a collectible ink pen, The Beatles :-) I don't think I sat much of the night--I was dancing on and off the dance floor all night long *lol* Instead of doing the usual after gig "breakfast," we ended up back at my house to visit and for my brother's gang to eat gumbo. We had a blast sitting there and talking. We ended up waking up the younger kids (my two youngest girls and my two grandkids)! They left around 3 a.m., and as soon as I uploaded my pics, I crawled into bed and immediately passed out cold. As par for the course, I didn't get much sleep as some idiot called my cell phone at 8:30 a.m. and woke me up, and I don't know who did it, as they blocked their number :-( Anyway, the schedule shows the band will be back on February 4, but I'm not sure we will make it then or not, as we will have a new baby soon, and I don't know if Radona will be up to going out or not (or if we will want to leave the new baby that long). Whatever, I will update again the next time we go out. Some pics are included on the famous photo page :-) Till next time.....take it easy!
UPDATE 02/11/06: We did end up going to the gig on February 4 (me, the girls, James, my son, my brother, Julie, and a friend of Daryth's, plus others joined us), and what a gig it was! Those guys amaze me all the time. They continue to get better and better each passing time! I had just come off two weeks of work without a day off and TONS of stress related to my job. I was too tired to breathe, but we all seemed to have a blast, and the band was in a great mood. I never wanted to see the night end, either. David was back in full force, and it was great to see him there. It just wasn't the same without him last time. He is so awesome :-) I didn't take a whole lot of pics, but what I did take are posted on the famous photo page :-) Till next time.....take it easy (and I don't know when that will be as yet)!
UPDATE 04/15/06: Whoa! I'm still feeling yesterday's wrath, but oh what a great day it was! It actually started the night before when my dear friend came over to visit and stayed till around 1:30. Then my day started yesterday morn at 5 when I had to get up for work. Since SRMP was coming to town again, we decided to kill three birds with one stone, so to speak...celebrate our April birthdays (the twins' on the 21st and my brother's on the 28th), Good Friday, and go to Wayne and Layne's for another gig all in one day. After work, my friend came over, and while he, my son, and my granddaughter went to get our crawfish, the rest of us did some running around in town. We all managed to get back just about the same time and proceeded outside under the canopy to eat, drink beer, and visit. It was a rather warm day, but there was a really nice breeze which sure did help matters. When I drink, I tend to sweat worse :-( I hate it. Anyway, all in all, we had a terrific day and enjoyed the company, food, and drink. My family can attest to the fact that I'm not a big crawfish kind of person, and I can usually bypass it, but I tell you what, those were the best damned crawdads I've ever experienced in my whole life--they were done up by Steamboat Bill's On The Lake. I highly recommend them to everyone!!!!
So, we get ready around 6 and then head out to the club by 7 and do the normal things we do while waiting on the band. I was pretty amazed at first that there were only a handful of us there...all tables in the center were empty. I was scared it would stay that way since it was a holiday, but it ended up being pretty packed. I noticed a lot of the regulars weren't there, though.
As always, the highlight of my night is usually when SRMP get on stage and start their gig, but on this particular night, it was when I was walking out the door to tell my brother something (he was on the phone), and lo and behold, I ran smack dab into my dear friend who had been adamantly against joining us for months now (he's definitely not a Cajun music fan). I really didn't believe my eyes at first, then I screamed with delight, and he gave me a big old bear hug :-) He totally made my night by surprising me like that! How I just adore that man! I've never had a male best friend before now, so it's amazing to me! We are so comfortable around each other and can talk about anything. I love it! If you read my "Rita Ranting," you will read all about him there, and you can find various pics of him from Thanksgiving and Christmas to the birth of my new grandson who soon became his godson :-) We all had a great time, including my friend who admitted to me that he was surprised he did not get bored and was really enjoying the music. He even said they were damned good....so, there's hope for him yet. He also commented to me that he wished he had learned how to two step years ago. Well, it's never too late! He did state, however, that he didn't know if he'd make a habit out of going, though :-( We shall see! *lol* Needless to say, the guys were hotter than ever. I know, I always say that, but it's just so true!
Photos from our whole day are posted on the famous photo page :-) Till next time.....take it easy (schedule shows June 23, and of course, I can't wait)!
UPDATE 05/21/06: Friday evening was awesome. We went to "Downtown at Sundown" in Lake Charles for the very first time to see none other than my favorite group, SRMP. First off, this was LC's eighth year having this celebration of sorts, and it was our first time going. Me miss SRMP on purpose? You must be joking! *lol* I hate driving that interstate, and I hate the sun beating down on me even more, but I wouldn't have missed it for nothing. Besides, my younger girls and my granddaughter would never have let me live it down if they didn't get to go--they are pretty much hooked on SRMP. We parked down the street near Mary Ann's and walked around to the huge parking lot, and there are the guys driving in. Steve motioned us over, and we said our hellos, and he totally made Taylor's day by taking pics with her. We also got to proudly introduce our beautiful Brayden to Steve and Sam, as well :-) Needless to say, it was definitely HOT, but there was a fairly good breeze blowing at times. We made our way over to the left of the stage and stood there near the speakers, and of course, we were all in ecstasy when the gig started. I know I always say this, but it's just so damned true....those guys were hotter than ever. So, needless to say, the heat bearing down from the sun was so minor in comparison to how hot they were :-) They were all in a great mood, too! They hadn't been in LC for nearly two years, too, since the MSU fest that I missed, and the people that packed that area were unreal. Even the mayor commented that this crowd was the most people they have ever seen in the past eight years (and this fest goes on each Friday for four weeks). All I kept thinking was, "Look who you have on stage--that's why the crowd is so huge!" :-) We were almost a crowd with just us, and then my son was missing *lol* It goes without saying that we would not have been there if it weren't for SRMP (and we will not be attending the three other band schedules). A huge thank you goes out to the LC American Press for sponsoring such a great bunch of guys :-) Besides the fabulous performances, the highlight of my night was seeing my two older grandchildren dancing together :-) PRICELESS! Precious little Collin was so thrilled to have been here and apparently loved the guys--he even asked his mama to buy him a CD, which she did and they autographed for him :-) I hold so much hope for the future :-) We had so much fun that, before we knew it, the time had passed quickly, and it was 9 p.m. :-( Once home, I turned on our local NBC affiliate to watch the news, and lo and behold, even though Holli had told me the camera man had shot us, I was shocked to see that KPLC used "us" as a part of their segment on the fun. With the thousands of people there, they could have easily found a much better subject :-( I was "dancing with Brayden" to Creole Stomp, and he was adorable! :-) Our five seconds of fame *lol* We took tons of pics and will post them on the famous photo page ASAP :-)
UPDATE 08/20/06: To say I'm in withdrawal is an understatement :-( SRMP was scheduled on June 23 and again on August 12, but both gigs were removed/canceled/whatever, and I'm experiencing some major, MAJOR withdrawal symptoms. Hopefully, we will see the guys again real soon. This is the longest we have gone without a fix in over two years now :-( Anyway, it was birthday time again for me, and this one was the big one. Turning 50 did not bother me in the least :-)
Monday was a special day....I had to get up at 5 and work *lol* And, I had already worked over the weekend :-( Daryth surprised me with decorations outside that told the world that I turned 50 and also made me cry with a beautiful silver photo charm bracelet, and each charm holds a baby photo of of my five kids :-) It's priceless!!!! Later on, she came in with a huge BD cake and two cards.
On Tuesday, she took me out to eat at Chili's which was awesome....I had never been there before. We all talked, drank, and ate like fools.
Thursday night, I went to a dinner meeting for work at Casa Manana, and it ended up being a little BD celebration there with a really neat balloon and card from Mary, and a cake.
Last night, a whole bunch of us made our way to Wayne and Layne's for a big celebration. It wasn't going to be the same without SRMP, but we were all bound and determined to have a good time anyway. Don Rich was supposed to be there. I had heard his name before, but I wasn't too sure what he was all about. So, I did a search and found his website to check him out, but he was mostly swamp pop with some Cajun.
We got there around 6:30 to eat Wayne's famous poboys, drink, shoot pool, and talk. Not long after, this band starts coming in, and we found out that it wasn't Don Rich after all. It was Don Fontenot et Les Amis De La Louisiane. My first and only thought was, "Oh no, they play that stupid donkey song :-( I really didn't know much about them other than being privy to a few songs of theirs via KLCL radio before. An acquaintance of mine came in and was telling me they were pretty much traditional Cajun, but I was skeptical due to that dumb song (that grates on my last nerve). I tell you, however, they are pretty damned awesome. Man alive, that Don Fontenot can play a mean accordion, and the rest of his band was pretty great, as well. (I *really* need to get out more!!! *lol*) If it weren't for the title track of their newest CD and the fact that they played another really stupid song, Vibrator (by another group that I refuse to have anything to do with), I wouldn't have one thing to complain about *lol* They played tons of good Cajun songs, a couple of really good Zydeco songs, a few good swamp pop songs, and then the two obnoxious songs mentioned above (which I can forgive them for since everything else was just so good). Visit their website for more info, bios, and etc.
We had such a great time, though, and ended up hanging around till 2 a.m. watching the "kids" cut up, and that, in and of itself, is not something I care to see. Man, some of them can get really nasty on the dance floor :-( I had fun watching my niece and nephew, though :-) Even the music was okay until the deejay started playing some rap crap. I absolutely, positively HATE that. I grabbed up my stuff and told my family I was just going to go sit in my van, but they ended up leaving, as well. I can't and will not tolerate that nasty rap crap (and I mean it was NASTY)! Anyway, we took tons of pics and they can be found on the famous photo page :-)
(PS My son and other daughter gave me a ton of "50" paraphernalia and cards and a beautiful 5x7 glass frame that says mom on it and cards, respectively, which made me laugh and made me cry; plus, I got hot pink and white roses from James, Jeremy, and Jonathan :-) How sweet!!!)
UPDATE 09/26/06: Ya know, I've been updating this for nearly three years now and comment that I have these horrible withdrawals when I don't see SRMP, but what's really sad is that they DON'T GO AWAY after I do see them again *lol* I just can't get enough! I'm totally stuck on SRMP :-) This is a good thing, though. Anyway, FINALLY, this better-than-terrific bunch of guys came back to Wayne and Layne's on Saturday night, September 23, and needless to say, we were there to celebrate their return big time. We also stole the opportunity to celebrate my dear friend's, Jonathan (or JP as I affectionately call him), birthday that was on the 18th. (It was also the one-year anniversary of that mean old bitch Rita wrecking havoc on us last year, but I tried desperately not to remember her!!!!)
My God, there ended up being a ton of us, and we passed a "bon temp," for sure! If I can count us all....about 15 or so in total :-) Two of our usual gang were missing, though--in my brother and my nephew :-(
As per our normal routine, we got there early to get our usual place of residence for the night, shoot pool, and eat Wayne's famous poboys. JP was really surprised to see the balloons and cookie cake :-) We had been celebrating for a week, and I had already given him his present and his cards the Friday before. I gave him the fifth season of Smallville on DVD which he said was the best present anyone could have gotten him. Hmmm...how did I know to do that?! *lol*
The time passed real fast, and before we knew it, the whole band had arrived, and it was time to start. David had gotten there much earlier than everyone else, and he stood at our table talking to Aaron for a good while. When Derek got to our table, I went over to hug and talk to him, as I hadn't seen him in forever. Then, I feel the presence of someone by me, and it's none other than SR himself. We hugged big time and talked for a while. It had been just too damned long :-( It was really so nice seeing all of them again, but, I know, that is a given *lol* Then our dear friend, Sam's wife, came in, and it was so nice to see her again, as it had been way too long. She made my night even more special, too :-)
They started the gig around 9:30, and man alive, needless to say once more, they were awesome. The evening passed by way too fast, and before I knew it, it was after midnight and nearly over.
Steve called Jo-El Sonnier up for a few songs, and as he is a favorite of mine and I had never seen him in person before, it was a nice touch. I about came unglued on his second tune, a jitterbug, as the man is truly fabulous on that accordion. I looked over at Steve and saw the way he was looking at Jo-El with such admiration. It warmed my heart!!!! He looked over at me, motioned his head towards Jo-El, and smiled. Oh yeah!
I don't have to remind ya that my favorite instrument is the accordion, and I admire anyone who can master it and really, REALLY play it!! I don't have to remind ya who my #1 accordionist is, either. While I may love and even adore a few others, there is only one popular artist out there who has my heart and soul completely. Not only can the man play like a demon, his voice is beyond compare. When someone can play it with such passion AND sing, I totally sit in awe. Of course, I'm talking about Steve Riley!!!
(Okay, I know, enough with the sappy crap already, right? *lol*)
Anyway, we hung around for a good while after, and David came up and hugged me bye! How sweet!!!!! I don't have to remind ya, either, that he's the best fiddler out there. Here again, you have someone who not only masters the instrument of his choice but also has a such a golden voice to go with it. Honestly, I can't think of anyone else out there who can claim the same!!!! I just love him! (*lol* Here I go again!!! I just can't help myself! I'm totally devoted to David, Sam, Kevin, Brazos, and Steve!!!!)
The whole night was a treasure :-) Their schedule shows them to return on December 2, and if all goes well, we'll be there, no doubt. My life is passing by way too fast now as it is, but damn it, I can't wait!!!!! :-)
A "few" photos can be found on the famous photo page as per the norm :-) See ya next time!
UPDATE 12/02/06: SRMP were back at Wayne and Layne's for yet another gig, and we were there, needless to say. Honestly, I was tired, still feeling bad (was feverish at the first of the week), and just not into it, so I didn't have as great of a time like I normally would have. Plus, my brother and JP were missing, cause my brother is still out of state (again) and JP had to work the next morning. The evening started out differently than the normal, too, so you know what that means :-( It was rather slow for a time with lots of different songs and waltzes. You know me, I like them fast-fast tunes best, and I also like hearing all the normal songs they tend to play *lol* I think I came alive when I heard Creole Stomp start up, and it pretty much stayed up after that. Whew! That tune is just too hot!!!!! They played a few "new" tunes and a couple of Christmas songs, as well, which was a nice surprise. Also, Sam got to sing his newest contribution, River of Time, and I nearly broke my back jumping off the bar stool on that note!!!!! *lol* I really love that song! Steve also dedicated Bon Reve to us which is getting to be pretty much a routine :-) How we all love that song!!!! I don't know what was up, but even the deejay sucked at first break to the point NONE of us enjoyed those tunes, but then he got a bit better next time. A co-worker surprised me when she showed up, and she sat with us. Our super's daughter and a friend of hers were also there.
Ah well, no matter, the guys were awesome as always, and it was a good time by all of us there.
We hung around a few minutes after, and I got to hear the deejay play Pour Some Sugar On Me by Def Leopard, and I left there singing up a storm (hopefully, no one heard me). Four of us stopped at The Waffle House per our new routine since Pitt Grill isn't open 24/7 right now, and it was around 2:30 by the time I got home to settle down and around 4 when I finally went to bed.
A "few" photos can be found on the famous photo page as per the norm :-) The guys are supposed to return on January 27. See ya next time!
UPDATE 01/27/07: It was another great night at Wayne and Layne's with the fabulous Mamou Playboys....lots of good music and lots of good people around us. All of us were there, plus JP and Tonya, and a lot of James' family was there. There was a new DJ there, too, who was much better than the one there last time, even though he played a few crappy tunes (like that horrible vibrator fiasco, the stupid monkey jive, and that stupid chicken crap--I don't care that Travis needs a vibrator, don't care that Richard lost his monkey, and don't give a crap who lost their chicken). We had a blast, though. Steve came up and talked to us for a few, and I snapped a few pics.
SRMP is always in excellent form, and despite playing a few different tunes, it was awesome. I marked out big time on "Between Eunice and Opelousas," as I always do. I love the original song on the CD, La Toussaint, but to hear this in person AND watch Steve and David in person is beyond describable. Steve really hurts playing this and even has to wipe his face a few times. I mean, this is done so incredibly fast live and in person, and it's smokin'! Whew! I totally lose my mind over this!
There was an announcement made that a "greatest hits CD" is forthcoming, and needless to say, I was delighted to hear that. When asked, I submitted a partial list of my favorites to be considered :-) I have no doubts that whatever is on there will be fabulous! I can't wait to have this in my hands :-)
We hung around for another hour and a half after and goofed off. The music and antics after the gig left a lot to be desired, however. I'm just not into that. Yeah, I'm getting old. James' mom and I sat there and discussed that topic a good while *lol*
I marked out big time when I saw my one and only son get up to dance with Tonya to a Cajun tune (we could NEVER get him to do that before). I snapped tons of pics but mostly stood there saying "yay" over and over again with tears in my eyes. That was a first, and I hope it's the beginning of more to come! I hold more hope for the future. My son seems to be crossing over--maybe! *lol* I have already "corrupted" my girls and my grandkids to the joys of Cajun music, so he was the last one holding out *lol*
At the end of the gig, I look over at JP and see him bobbing his head up and down to the music, and I freaked out. He laughed and leans over to tell me, "Well, you couldn't see them, but my legs have been moving all night long." There's hope here, too *lol* That was coming from a person who claimed Cajun music is trash! Yeah, right! *lol*
Anyhow, there's no scheduling for the club again as yet, but SRMP will be in Iowa at the Rabbit Festival on March 16 for a two-hour gig. Our plans (mine and Radona's) as of right now (February 1), are that we're going, but it's still far off. I'm pretty positive of one thing, though, and that is, if we don't bring Amity, Holli, Taylor, and Collin, we'll NEVER live it down! *lol* Pics are forthcoming, but I don't have many of them. They can be found on the photo page as per the norm :-) See ya next time!
UPDATE 03/16/07: Well, it was a super time in Iowa, LA, at the Rabbit Festival, thanks to the great SRMP. You know by now, if you've been reading this, that I'm addicted to this band, and there's no turning back now. They never cease to amaze me, and that night was no different. We all had a terrific time, and I'll digress on further comments till next time. A slide show of pics can be found on the photo page as per the norm :-) See ya next time which will be May 26 for another fun time at Wayne and Layne's (unless their schedule changes)!
UPDATE 05/27/07: SRMP was in town again last night, and they packed the house! They were awesome, as usual, and played a lot of the usual great songs and a few new songs which were "different" and "interesting." I had a good time despite the unruly antics of some of the idiots at our tables who were acting like children in kindergarten (my brother, his son, my son, and JP). Despite my poor knee, I even danced a lot which actually felt good. I took a huge chance of injuring my knee again by two stepping, but I couldn't resist. Anyway, pics can be found on the photo page as per the norm :-) See ya next time which is unknown at this time.
UPDATE 09/01/07: Okay, it has been just too damned long since we saw the guys :-( I was searching and found some videos on You-Tube tonight, and I made a special page for them, so look: **HOT SRMP VIDEOS**
UPDATE 12/16/07: SRMP was in town again last night for the first time in nearly seven months, and it was about time! They packed that house, and they were awesome, as usual. They played a lot of the usual great songs and a few new songs which were "different" and "interesting." I think I had a good time despite how tired I was. I knew the time they'd show back in town would be my weekend to work the day shift, and sure enough, it was. Their 20th anniversary is coming up, and to celebrate, they are putting out a 2-disc CD in April of their "greatest hits" and a few new songs. Needless to say, I can't wait!!!! Anyway, a slideshow can be found on the photo page as per the norm :-) See ya next time which is unknown at this time.
UPDATE 10/05/08: It has been a long, long time since I sat at this desk in my room and updated my website. If you want to know the whole story, you can read my blog and updates on Yahoo and you can check out my slide show.....the story of my life, but we were on our way to see SRMP in Iowa at The Rabbit Festival when the wreck happened. Funny thing, what I remember is that all I kept thinking about was that I couldn't get to see the band. Is that a loyal follower or what? *lol* It's true, though. I don't know which one of my kids notified the guys, but three of them came to visit me in the hospital and/or called. I love them so much for that and for their special friendships :-) One of them even came to visit me at home which was awesome, as well as called a few times :-) It was a long road to recovery, but I think I'm nearly normal again. My goal was to be able to go and see the guys on September 20, 2008, and walk into Wayne and Layne's. I did that, too :-) All of my pictures are on my laptop, so I'll make a slide show with them and post them on here ASAP. It was such an awesome night. JP, my good friend, had just turned 50 two days prior, so we celebrated. When the guys arrived, the first person in the door was Meera, and we hugged and talked. Then, one by one, the guys came up and greeted me :-) Later in the evening, Steve was talking about the Texas hurricane evacuees and then started talking about me, the accident, and how I'm a true survival story. I only wish someone had taped that for me. It was priceless :-) We really had such a great night, and I can't wait till next time on December 13 :-) See ya....
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