Changes at Porretta

As usual, the line up for the Porretta Soul Festival has changed. It seems to evolve during the months leading up to the event, with some acts disappearing from the list and others being added. Out go Carl Sims and David Hudson, but in come Percy Wiggins, Vaneese Thomas, J Blackfoot and Toni Green, who was superb when she appeared a couple of years back (see photo). Overall it's as strong as ever and well worth a look. Full line up as follows: Solomon Burke, Spencer Wiggins, Toni Green, Oscar Toney Jr.,J. Blackfoot, Austin DeLone All Star Band with Sweet Nectar, Percy Wiggins, Jesse Dee,The Diplomats of Solid Sound with The Diplomettes,Vaneese Thomas (sister of Carla - see photo below) with Soul Spinner, Bobby Johnson, CIV Soul Band. Solomon and J Blackfoot (formerly of the Soul Children) are regulars at Porretta and are always good value. The Wiggins brothers haven't appeared before so far as I know (neither has Oscar Toney Jr) and I've never seen Spencer perform, although Percy appeared with the Hi Rhythm Section at last year's Ponderosa Stomp.

Meanwhile, a memorial service for Eddie Bo has been arranged for April 1 at the Mid-City Lanes Rock 'n Bowl from 2 to 5 p.m. I read somewhere that Eddie released more singles than any other New Orleans artist apart from Fats Domino. Listening to a couple of albums I appreciate just how varied - and high quality - his repertoire was. A great loss.