A Summer Weekend.

with Some of New Orleans' Finest Musicians

The last weekend of May turned into a whirlwind of live music photography, giving me the chance to spend three nights in a row with some of my favorite local musicians and venues.

I kicked things off at Tipitina's for a Free Friday show featuring Slugger and Eric Johanson. It was an incredible night from start to finish.

Slugger absolutely crushed their set. Made up of four of New Orleans' most talented musicians, they've quickly become one of the city's hottest up-and-coming bands. Their chemistry on stage is undeniable, blending tight musicianship with an infectious energy that keeps the crowd engaged from the first note to the last. If you haven't seen them yet, do yourself a favor and put them on your list.

When Eric Johanson took the stage, he lit the place on fire. His blend of blues, southern rock, and searing guitar work filled the room with energy. Every solo seemed to build on the last, delivering the kind of performance that reminds you why live music is so special.

The next night found me right back at Tipitina's for another free show featuring 95MB and Gov't Majik.

95MB opened the evening with their live drum-and-bass sound, weaving together deep grooves, melodic textures, and improvisation into a set that felt both energetic and hypnotic.

Gov't Majik followed with a high-energy set packed with Afrobeat rhythms, funk grooves, and dance-inducing jams. The band's infectious energy quickly spread through the crowd, turning the room into one giant celebration. It also felt a bit like a reunion, as I was greeted warmly by the band members and so many familiar faces throughout the night.

On Sunday, I made my way to The Broadside for the Dead Head Family Reunion to catch the Iko Allstars.

The band settled into an evening of exploratory jams, weaving together classic influences with the unmistakable spirit of New Orleans. It was also great to see Billy Iuso again. One of the highlights of the evening came when George Porter Jr. made a surprise appearance and joined the band for a Meters medley. Watching one of the architects of New Orleans funk step on stage and effortlessly lock into the groove was a special moment that the crowd won't soon forget.

It was the perfect way to wrap up the weekend.

Usually after a three-night run like this, I'm exhausted. This time was different. I left feeling energized, inspired, and grateful to be part of such an incredible music community. Weekends like this are a reminder of why I started photographing live music in the first place.

I can't wait to catch all of these bands again.

Check out the photo albums below!