MARDI GRAS

THE SOUNDS OF NEW ORLEANS

(Click picture to see video)

The Mardi Gras has been active since 1984 and was the resident band at the Coach and Horses Pub. in Daventry which was run by Gerry Mundy and his wife Chris who are very enthusiastic supporters of the band and always made band members, guests and audience members most welcome. Gerry and John Hale were both involved in the band formation which was set up to include other musicians with whom they shared a love of this style of New Orleans Jazz. The last performance at that venue was on Thursday 22nd. May 2003 when Gerry and Chris decided to retire from the business and they were presented with a "personalized" copy of our latest CD recording as a "Thank You" for their support.

The band was relocated at Casey's, Market Square, Daventry NN11 4BH, UK until June 2009 when it was decided that because of dwindling attendances, it would have to be closed. As can be seen from the interior photographs, (see Venue Page) the high natural wood ceiling provides perfect acoustics for musical entertainment. In this atmosphere the band endeavored to recreate the sounds of the Crescent City with a variety of "standards" and early music as performed by the New Orleans Orchestras of yesteryear as well as the latter-day bands. Many unusual dances and songs, including those with Bayou, Spanish and Latin influences and including Marches, Stomps, Spirituals, Blues, Rags, Waltzes, Tangos etc. are also included in the band's repertoire.

The current band members, who have all had a vast amount of experience in this music are:-

Bev Luton - Trumpet, Vocals and Leader.

John Hale - Reeds, Vocals and Band/Gig organizer.

Stan Stephens - Trombone and Vocals.

Paul "Spud" Spedding - Drums.

Chris Riley - Piano/Keyboard.

The Mardi Gras is always interested in playing for both public and private events and comes complete with a high quality amplification system (where required) and a musical selection to meet a wide range of client musical requirements, be it background music or dancing, or both. For booking details please telephone John Hale on 01604 505408.

 

Early Band CD and Promotion Pics