Photo by Jorge Sanhueza-Lyon
There’s something in the melodies that Cha Wa plays, that allow me to instantly start singing along. This group, self-described as a “Mardi Gras Indian Funk Band”, come out of New Orleans and carry the traditions and soul of NOLA wherever they go. On top of the swinging polyrhythms and sousaphone bass lines, the group grooves with a mixture of melodic and chant singing, classic funky guitar riffing, and impressive trumpet lines. This is not to mention the traditional Indian suits that decorate the band’s frontman, J’Wan Boudreaux. When you listen to their debut record, Funk ‘n’ Feathers, close your eyes, hear the trains by the Mississippi, smell the gumbo & beignets, and sit down on Frenchman as Cha Wa takes you away.
If you missed them at Antone’s last weekend, feel free to enjoy some their Studio 1A performance in the links below.
-Will Maxwell
