Toubab Krewe at Maple Leaf Bar during Jazzfest 2024 – Live Music Photography in New Orleans

The Maple Leaf Bar in New Orleans has quickly become one of my favorite places to spend time with some of my favorite musicians that have become friends. It is a challenge to shoot in there with the signature dark red lighting, and it is especially interesting to photograph there when it is packed. Tt was definitely a full house during Jazzfest insanity (wait until you see the pic from the back of the venue!). The house crew blows me away with the way they manage these crowds and shenanigans. It is always a blast and I have met the coolest people there! Looking forward to the next chance to come play…

This was my first chance to get to see Toubab Krewe at the Leaf, and it was the best getting to go with a friend I haven’t gotten to see music with since college. …and just like back in the day, I was having too much fun catching up with them to think to take a photo of us. It was his first time getting to see Toubab Krewe live and as a musician, I’m pretty sure he left inspired by their unique musical stylings. This band combines traditional African rhythms with a ‘no borders’ kind of approach where you will find rock, jam, folk, and more, making one of a kind music inspired after almost 20 years of playing together and learning from traditional musicians from around the world. If you get a chance to see this band, go! They tour all over so likely will be somewhere near you – or might be a great excuse to go travel!

Toubab Krewe members Justin Perkins (Kora, Kamelngoni, guitar, percussion), Terrence Houston (drumset), Drew Heller (guitar, organ), Justin Kimmel (bass, keys), and Luke Quaranta (Djembe, Congas, Dundun, Sangban, Kinkini)