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BUCKWHEAT ZYDECO IN RARE LOS ANGELES APPEARANCE 

The handful of zydeco enthusiasts who were at Safari Sam's in Hollywood on July 23rd left very happy. They were treated to some high energy Louisiana-style music by two tremendous bands, Zydeco Party Band and Buckwheat Zydeco. The venue featured a restaurant, bar and mezzanine for dining and watching the band. There was a nice large space for dancing, but no fans to move the air. The music would have to do that. 

Doug Legacy, formerly with Oingo Boingo, fronts the Los Angeles-based band on accordion, and I must say he does some excellent vocals. I think it is rare for zydeco bands to feature such good vocals and lyrics, and appreciate them when I hear them. They played a mix of R&B, swamp pop, funk, country, and zydeco with great energy helped along nicely by the horn section.

Another great band followed with which many of our longtime zydeco-lovers will remember from way back is Buckwheat Zydeco. He stole the show with his stage presence, good vocals and awesome accordion playing and Jimmy Smith-style Hammond organ work. Backed also by some great horn players, this band really rocked, though not all of it could be classified as "zydeco." He had some mambo-style, and jazz and funk all mixed in together. It was a great for all who listened and hit the dance floor.

Thanks to Karen Redding for getting the word out about the performance, and for some great dances.