When you do a job for over 20 years, sometimes it gets a little...old? It's always a challenge to find something that will charge us up, but we consistently come up with ideas that keep us moving here at OffBeat.

We're getting ready to present our big awards show, "Best of The Beat" on January 28 and 31. The upcoming year is the 70th anniversary of the birth of genius New Orleans pianist James Booker (he was born on December 13, 1939; so his 69th birthday would have been this Saturday), and we plan to pay tribute to him this year, as well as Big Chief Bo Dollis of the Wild Magnolias and saxophonist/arranger/composer/record label entrepreneur Harold Battiste, Jr..We have some big suprises up our sleeves, and it's not a show you want to miss.

Looking for a really unique Christmas gift? Scroll down through this week's Weekly Beat and take a gander at the pianos being offered by sale by New Orleans funk legend Eddie Bo. Eddie is downsizing his studio and offers two beautiful historic pianos to someone who cherishes New Orleans' musical history.

If you know someone who loves Louisiana music , support our musicians by purchasing CDs at the Louisian a Music Factory this holiday season. Keep the music alive!



If you don't read the print version of OffBeat, you're missing some stuff that we don't have online. For example: we don't include our "Classic Song" series, nor do we include our ongoing series on musicians' cooking. So far, Irma Thomas has made Baked Macaroni and Cheese; John Boutte, his Oyster Pie, and we'e got a lot more to show you in upcoming months. OffBeat makes a great Christmas gift for anyone who loves New Orleans music, food and culture. We're not a "city magazine," or an "alternative weekly," or even an "arts publication." OffBeat is a little bit of all three, and our award-winning editorial and layout bring a fresh perspective on our home town and its Louisiana environs. Buy a subscription for a friend or friends. It's a gift that keeps on giving, and helps to sustain local musicians and the local New Orleans economy. If you want to subscribe in time for Christmas, click here.

Every year, we gather information on our Weekly Beat readership to determine what you like or you want us to change in the Weekly Beat.

Please help us by completing our latest survey here.

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Read Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Jan Ramsey's monthly commentary "Mojo Mouth".

If you haven't done so already, please renew your OffBeat subscription. We want to be able to continue to update you on what's happening down here, y'all!

As always, we appreciate your reading OffBeat, and the Weekly Beat, our e-publication, and welcome your comments on what can make it better.

OffBeat's Please support our advertisers and reserve space now in our annual "Best of The Beat Awards" January 2009 issue. The deadline for space reservations is December 15.

OffBeat's annual blowout awards show, the "Best of The Beat Awards" will be held on Saturday January 31, 2009 at the House of Blues. Stay tuned for talent, information on voting and ticket sales!

OffBeat's Best of the Beat returns to the House of Blues Saturday, January 31, 2009. Once again, we take over the house with food from some of the finest restaurants in town in the dining room, our awards, and music in both the Main Room and the Parish. This year (or should it be next year?), we're proud to present Trombone Shorty and Orleans Ave., Little Freddie King, the New Orleans Bingo! Show, Rotary Downs, the Happy Talk Band, the Lost Bayou Rambers and Los Po-Boy- Citos. We'll also pay tribute to piano genius James Booker as we enter 2009, the 70th anniversary year of his birth, with pianists Jon Cleary, Tom McDermott, John "Papa" Gros, Joe Krown, Josh Paxton and Mike Hood. We'll also honor one of this year's Lifetime Achievement in Music recipients - Bo Dollis with a performance by the Wild Magnolias with Bo Dollis, Jr., Big Chief Monk Boudreaux and Big Chief Donald Harrison. That night, we'll also recognize Lifetime Achievement in Music recipient Harold Battiste, Jr. as well as our other honorees.

Tickets for the Best of the Beat go on sale Saturday at Ticketmaster and the House of Blues box office. Tickets are $25, but we have a limited number available for an early bird price of $20. Get them as stocking stuffers for your loved ones, or buy yourself the gift you actually want!

Keep watching the Weekly Beat and OffBeat for Best of the Beat updates, because we still have a few tricks up our sleeves, and we still have our party January 28 at Harrah's, where we'll give out many of our awards and Jesse McBride and the Next Generation will pay tribute to Harold Battiste.

The Ponderosa Stomp announced its lineup for next year this week with first time Stompers Wanda Jackson (pictured), soul man Howard Tate, and psychedelic garage rockers Cyril Jordan and Roy Loney of the Flamin' Groovies, backed by the A-Bones. Shreveport's Dale Hawkins and guitar legend James Burton will reunite, and Otis Clay will play with the Hi Records' Rhythm Section.

The Ponderosa Stomp is once again at the House of Blues between weekends of Jazz Fest, next year on April 28 and 29. The Ponderosa Stomp conference that took place at the Cabildo last year will return as well; details on it to follow.

Tickets will be $50 per night, and they'll go on sale mid-January.

THE WRECKING CREW

During this year's New Orleans Film Festival, the documentary The Wrecking Crew was screened. The movie looks at one of the most important group of studio musicians in music history - a collection whose work was heard in movie and cartoon soundtracks, pop hits, rock 'n' roll, and recording by vocalists including Frank Sinatra. Drummer Earl Palmer was part of the Wrecking Crew, as was Louisiana- born sax player Plas Johnson, and the film that tells their story will show again Tuesday night at 7:30 p.m. at the Contemporary Arts Center.


HEAVEN ON EARTH

Saturday night, the Al Copeland Foundation will host a benefit for Merkel Cell Carcinoma research to help fight the disease that took Copeland's life earlier this year. The "Heaven on Earth" benefit is named for the theme for this year's display of Christmas lights in front of Copeland's house at 5001 Folse Dr. (at Transcontinental), and it will include food, drinks, a silent auction, and live music with Vince Vance and the Valiants, Fleur de Lis, and the Blackened Blues Band. For details and tickets, go to AlCopelandFoundation.org.


WHAT ARE YOU DOING NEW YEAR'S EVE?

How about being part of the "Toast of the Nation 2008" broadcast line on NPR, which this year will be live from Donna's Bar and Grill? Evan Christopher and Tom McDermott's Danza Quartet will perform with Shannon Powell and Matt Perrine, and tickets are on sale now for $60, which includes reserved seating, two free drinks, a champagne toast, a midnight buffet from Chef Charlie Sims, and coffee and dessert from the First Cup Café. Tickets are available at Donna's, the Louisiana Music Factory, and the First Cup Café (3146 Calhoun St., Uptown). Doors open at 8:30, music starts at 9:30, and the doors will be closed during the taping of the set starting at 11.

In other "get your tickets now" news, the New Orleans Public Library Foundation presents "31, Live at the Library," a concert to kick off a season of fundraising including foundation chairman Irvin Mayfield's pledge to raise $1,000 for each of his 31 years. His birthday bash takes place Saturday, December 20 at the Main Library Branch (219 Loyola Ave.) and it will include the Roots, Kermit Ruffins and the Barbeque Swingers, Rebirth Brass Band, the Free Agents Brass Band, Amanda Shaw, and DJ Soul Sister. Tickets are free with a library card at all local library branches from Thursday, December 11 through December 19. Supplies are limited.


PHOTO FAIR

Saturday, the New Orleans Photo Alliance holds its Street Fair from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the 1100 block of St. Mary Street (between Magazine Street and Sophie Wright Place). Thirty artists will be on hand with photographs, books, cards and more for sale, with entertainment from Nattie, Patrice Fischer and ARPA, 30x90, Matt Holt, and Paula and the Pontiacs. For more information, go to NewOrleansPhotoAlliance.org.

In other festival news, the Treme Creole Gumbo Festival takes place Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 1225 N. Rampart St. in the parking lot of the new Jazz and Heritage Center. Chefs Alfred Singleton and Leah Chase will be on hand to demonstrate their gumbo secrets, and there will be music by Davis Rogan, the Treme Brass Band, Shamarr Allen, and more. For details and a schedule, go to JazzAndHeritage.org.


FLAT TRACK ACTION

The Big Easy Rollergirls return to their new home in the Human Performance Center at the University of New Orleans (the corner of Elysian Fields and Leon C. Simon). Saturday night, the StoryVillians and Confederacy of Punches will skate it out at 6 p.m. followed by the main event, when the Crecent Wenches host the Tallahassee Rollergirls from Florida. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.


SCI-FI SNEAK PEAK

This February, Mutants will air on the Sci-Fi Channel. The movie starring Michael Ironside, Steven Bauer and local actor Armando Leduc was filmed in Louisiana, and it tells the story of a mad scientist who devises a way to turn humans into savage mutants - not the noble, X- Men kind - and threatens to wreak his havoc on the world. Sunday night at 6:30, you can see Mutants at the Fine Arts Center (1733 Constantinople St.), with a performance by salsa band Rumba Buena following the movie. Tickets are $10 and $20, with proceeds going to Odyssey House.

Our December issue of OffBeat focuses on Christmas music, our writers' choices for best CDs of the year, the 50th anniversary of New Orleans venerable bar, Pat O'Brien's, the wacky world of Quintron and Miss Pussycat, Charlie's Steakhouse, a Backtalk with songwriter Jimmy Webb, "Gravy" featuring a recipe by Ingrid Lucia, and much, much more.

If you are reading this email but you do not subscribe to the print edition to OffBeat we encourage you to purchase a subscription.

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Thank you so much for supporting New Orleans and Louisiana culture by reading OffBeat and the Weekly Beat.

Last week, the nominees for the 51st annual Grammy Awards were announced, and this year Louisiana didn't have to rely on the jazz, blues and Cajun/zydeco categories to get a little love. Lil Wayne and Tha Carter III did the heavy lifting, garnering nominations for Album of the Year, Best Rap Solo Performance ( "A Milli" ), Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group (he competes against himself here as he's on Jay-Z's "Swagga Like Us" and Jay-Z's on his "Mr. Carter" ), Best Rap/Sung Collaboration ( "Got Money" ), Best Rap Song ("Lollipop" and "Swagga Like Us" ) and Best Rap Album.

But Weezy's not the whole story. Terence Blanchard is nominated for Best Jazz Instrumental Solo for "Be-Bop" from Live at the 2007 Monterey Jazz Festival, and the Blind Boys of Alabama are up for Best Traditional Gospel Album for Down in New Orleans, which they recorded here at Preservation Hall with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, the Hot 8 Brass Band, Allen Toussaint and more. Louisiana and friends own the Best Contemporary Blues Album category, with three of the five nominees from the area: Marcia Ball (Peace, Love BBQ), Dr. John and the Lower 911 (City That Care Forgot) and Irma Thomas (Simply Grand).

The Best Zydeco or Cajun Music Album will be contested for the second time this year by BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet (Live at the 2008 New Orleans Jazz Heritage Festival), Michael Doucet (From Now On), the Pine Leaf Boys (Homage Au Passé), Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys (Live at the 2008 New Orleans Jazz Heritage Festival) and Cedric Watson (Cedric Watson). Once again, Harry Shearer is nominated for Best Comedy Album, this time for Songs of the Bushmen. For a complete list of nominees, go to Grammy.com.

BIG SAM'S FUNKY NATION
Dec 12 Houston TX Continental Club

BONERAMA
Dec 16 Boulder CO Fox Theater
Dec 17 Crested Butte CO The Eldo
Dec 18 Vail CO Samana Lounge
Dec 19 Fort Collins CO Aggie Theater
Dec 20 Denver CO Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom

MARC BROUSSARD
Dec 11 Knoxville TN Bijou Theater
Dec 12 Charlotte NC Neighborhood Theater
Dec 13 Atlanta GA Center Stage
Dec 14 Birmingham AL WorkPlay Theater
Dec 17 Chicago IL Park West

DR. JOHN
Dec 11-14 Washington DC Blues Alley

CHRIS KLEIN THE BOULEVARDS
Dec 11 Berkeley CA Starry Plough
Dec 18 Oakland CA Cafe Van Kleef
Dec 19 East Bay CA Shattuck Down Low

IRVIN MAYFIELD WITH NEW ORLEANS JAZZ ORCHESTRA
Dec 21 San Francisco CA Davies Symphony Hall

AARON NEVILLE
Dec 12 Madisonville KY Glema Mahr Ctr. For The Arts
Dec 13 Florence IN Belterra Casino Resort
Dec 19 Bossier City LA Horseshoe Casino

Thursday night, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art presents singer/songwriter Creede Williams, and during the show, OffBeat's Elsa Hahne will sign copies of her new exploration of the relationship between food and culture in New Orleans (disguised as a cookbook), You Are Where You Eat. Also that night, Tipitina's presents a benefit for Big Chief Bo Dollis featuring the Wild Magnolias, 101 Runners, Marva Wright, Rockin' Dopsie, Jr. , Trombone Shorty, Big Chief Monk Boudreaux, Papa Grows Funk and more. Norwegian recording artist Nathalie Nordnes will perform at the Palm Court Thursday, and CC Adcock and Lil' Buck Sinegal are at d.b.a.

On Friday, Nathalie Nordnes plays the Norwegian Seaman's Church. Her first CD, Hush Hush went gold in Norway. Also that night, former Drive-By Trucker Jason Isbell (pictured) plays the Circle Bar with the Jason Isbell Duo. The Howlin' Wolf's month-long celebration of its 20th anniversary continues with MVVP: Stanton Moore, Johnny Vidacovich, Rich Vogel and George Porter, Jr. , with Russell Batiste, Jr. and more. Papa Grows Funk is at d.b.a., the Happy Talk Band is at the Saturn Bar, and the Radiators start a two-night stand at the Maple Leaf. It's Big Daddy "O" 's birthday show at Ruby's Roadhouse on the Northshore, and the Dragon's Den has a hip-hop night with Sway, DJ Finger Prince, DJ Dub Insurgent, and DJ Tall Jamal. At Harrah's, vocalist and songwriter Terry Steele will perform "Here and Now: the Legacy of Luther Vandross" Friday and Saturday nights.

On Saturday night, One Eyed Jacks presents the Bad Off, Good Guys and the Pat Sajak Assassins, and Tipitina's starts a two-day Cajun and zydeco dance festival with Geno Delafose, Zion Harmonizers, Curley Taylor, Al Bernard and many more starting at 1 p.m.

On Sunday, the dance festival at Tipitina's continues with Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys, Bruce Daigrepont, the Electrifying Crown Seekers, Leon Chavis and more starting at 3 p.m. That night, Gal Holiday and the Honky Tonk Revue are at the Balcony Music Club, and James Singleton plays Snug Harbor.

Monday night, the Rich Vogel Organ Trio is at d.b.a., and ohGr (formerly of Skinny Puppy) is at the House of Blues with American Memory Project opening.

Tuesday, Jeff Treffinger celebrates his 50th birthday at the Circle Bar playing with the Geraniums. Los Po-boy-citos are at the Rock 'n' Bowl. Alex McMurrray, Jonathan Freilich and Washboard Chaz Leary perform at the Alvar Branch Library (913 Alvar St.) at 7 p.m., and the House of Blues presents "the Night the B Stole Christmas" with Gavin Degraw, Lady GaGa, Metro Station and the Vettes.

Wednesday night, Charlie Fardella's at Fritzel's, Bob Andrews plays Dos Jefes, and the Maple Leaf presents Jamie Bernstein.

Jimmy Carpenter: Toiling in Obscurity (Independent)

Guyland Leday Family and Friends Zydeco Band: Welcome To My World (Shrimpo)
December 16, 2008
Justin Peake Robin Boudreaux: Submerge (Ears Eyes)

Touch Trio: Touch (Ears Eyes)

We Landed on the Moon!: These Little Wars (Independent)

January 20, 2009
BeauSoleil: Alligator Purse (Yep Roc)

Released in November 2008
Jimmy Breaux Friends: Live at Festivals Acadiens(Way Down in Louisiana)
Harry Connick, Jr.: What A Night! - A Christmas Album (Columbia)
The Courtyard Kings: The Courtyard Kings (Independent)
Desoto Street Band: Desoto Street Band (Little King Records)
Keith Frank: Love, Fear, Respected (Soul Wood Records)
Brice Miller: A Day In The Life Of Brice Miller (Miller Mack)
Leo Nocentelli: Say Na Hey (Independent)
Santeria: Year of the Knife (Independent)
Christian Scott: Live at Newport (Concord)
The subdudes: Live And Acoustic (Biographica Films)
Truckstop Honeymoon: Great Big Family (Squirell)
Toubab Krewe with Hot 8 Brass Band: Live (Upstream)
Lucinda Williams: Live from Austin Texas (New West)
Various Artists: Festivals Acadiens: Live 1981 (2 CDs)(Louisiana Crossroads)
Various Artists: Piano Blues Boogie 1938-39 (Solo Art)

Released in October 2008
Bobby Charles: Bobby Charles (Rhino)
Dash Rip Rock: Country Girlfriend (Abitian Records)
Jo "Cool" Davis: Jo Cool Sings Soul Gospel (Jo Cool Productions)
David Egan: You Don't Know Your Mind (Out of the Past)
Don Ewell and Yoshio Toyama: Duet (Jazzology)
Gumbeaux Rouge: Stirrin' It Up (Jin Records)
Joe Krown, Walter "Wolfman" Washington, Russell Batiste, Jr.: Live at the Maple Leaf (Independent)
Les Freres Michot: La Caroline (LFM)
Magnolia Jazz Band: Evening Prayer (GHB Records)
Joseph "Zig" Modeliste: Obama Groove (Single) (JSM Records)
Aaron Neville: Greatest Gospel Hits (EMI)
Quintron: Too Thirsty for Love (Goner Records)
John Royen: In The Beginning (Independent)
Vic Shepherd: Crescent City Serenade (Independent)
T-Broussard the Zydeco Steppers: Super T (Independent)
Various Artists: A Jazz Blues Christmas (Putumayo)
Various Artists: New Mardi Gras Classics (Abitian Records)
Lucinda Williams: Little Honey (Lost Highway)
Zydepunks: Finisterre (NMR)

Released in September 2008
Brint Anderson: Brint Anderson (Brinttunes)
Theresa Andersson: Hummingbird, Go! (Basin Street Records)
Vince Anthony: Swamp Poppin' Blues (Midnight Gold)
Barisal Guns: No. 1 (Independent)
B.G. Chopper City Boyz: Life in the Concrete Jungle (Chopper City Records)
Marc Broussard: Keep Coming Back (Atlantic)
Cowboy Mouth: Fearless (Valley Entertainment)
Donald Harrison: The Chosen (Nagel Heyer)
The Iguanas: If You Should Ever Fall On Hard Times (Yep Roc)
Lenny Jorns: Cover the Shit with Flowers (Independent)
Jean Knight: R&B Queen of New Orleans (Independent)
Lost Bayou Ramblers: Vermilionaire (Bayou Perdu Records)
Porter Batiste Stoltz: Moodoo: Live at Club Metrnome (High Steppin')
Daryl Sherman: New Orleans (Audiopfile)
Armand St. Martin his Bayou Bohemian All- Stars : Katrina Anthem (Patty Lee)
The Tomatoes: Divisionism (Revolution Blues Music)
TriFunctA: Hangin' (Independent)

More Christmas music, including the classics filtered through soul, bluegrass and singing saws, along with Allen Toussaint, Jimmy Webb and more.

MUSIC GENRE CODES
(AC) A Cappella; (AU) Acoustic; (BG) Big Band; (BL) Blues; (BU) Bluegrass; (BB) Brass Band; (SH) Cabaret/Show; (KJ) Cajun; (KS) Christian; (CL) Classical; (CR) Classic Rock; (KR) College Rock; (CO) Comedy; (CW) Country; (DN) Dance; (DG) Dance Group; (FE) Folk/Ethnic; (FR) Folk Rock; (FK) Funk; (FS) Fusion; (GG) Girl Group; (GS) Gospel; (MJ) Contemporary Jazz; (TJ) Traditional Jazz; (JV) Jazz, Variety; (LT) Latin; (ME) Metal; (OL) Oldies; (OR) Originals; (PK) Piano, Keyboards; (PP) Pop / Top 40 / Covers; (PR) Modern Rock; (RG) Reggae / World Beat; (RH) Rap / Hip-Hop; (RB) Rhythm Blues; (RC) Rockabilly; (RR) Rock; (SI) Swing; (SKA) Ska; (SS) Singer Songwriter; (SW) Spoken Word; (TC) Techno / Electronic; (TG) Thrash /Grunge; (VR) Variety; (VF) Vocals, Female; (VM) Vocals, Male; (ZY) Zydeco.

THURSDAY DECEMBER 11
Apple Barrel: Dave Gregg the Odd Man Band (BL) 8p, I Tell You What (BL) 10:30p
Arnaud's Jazz Bistro: the Gumbo Trio (JV) 6:30p
Banks Street Bar: Cosmic Sweat Society (RR) 10p
Blue Nile: DJ T-Roy (RG) 11p
Bombay Club: Philip Melancon (PK) 7p
Café Beignet: Steamboat Willie Jazz Band (JV) 6p
Carousel Lounge (Hotel Monteleone): John Autin (PK) 9p
Circle Bar: the Bruisers, New Dopey Singers (RR) 10p
CoCo Club: Marva Wright (BL) 8p
d.b.a.: Paul Sanchez (LT) 7p, CC Adcock and Lil Buck Sinegal (BL) 10p
Dos Jefes: Todd Duke (BL JV) 9:30p
Dragon's Den: Bassbin Safari (VR) 10p EOE, Jealous Monk (FK RH) 10p
Fritzel's: Connie Jones (TJ) 9p
Funky Pirate: Big Al Carson the Blues Masters (BL) 8p
Hookah Café: Super Cool DJ Kazu (RB) 9p
Jazz Emporium: BRW (JV) 8p
Kerry Irish Pub: Dave James Banned (BL) 9p
Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop: Jeff "Snake" Greenberg (PK BL VR) 6p
Le Bon Temps Roule: Soul Rebels House Party (BB) 11p
Maple Leaf: the Trio feat. Johnny Vidacovich guests (FK) 10p
Margaritaville: Eddie Parino (RR) 7p
Mid-City Lanes Rock 'n' Bowl: Zydeco Night feat. Chris Ardoin (ZY) 8:30p
Ogden Museum: Ogden After Hours feat. Creede Williams (SS) 6p
Old Point Bar: Marc Stone Westbank Mike (BL) 6:30p, Washboard Chaz (BL) 9p
Palm Court Jazz Café: Nathalie Nordness, Crescent City Joymakers feat. Leroy Jones and Katja Toivola (JV) 8p
Prejean's (Lafayette): Clarece Denias (KJ) 7p
Preservation Hall: Brass Band Thursday feat. Rebirth Brass Band (BB) 8p
Saturn Bar: Alex McMurray (RR) 10p
Snug Harbor: John Mahoney Big Band (BG) 8 10p
Tipitina's: Benefit for Big Chief Bo Dollis feat. Wild Magnolias, 101 Runners, Marva Wright, Rockin' Dopsie and many more (FK VR) 10p
Trinity Church: Choral Evensong (CL) 6:30p
Tropical Isle Beach Club: Waylon Thibodeaux (PP) 5p
Tropical Isle Bourbon: Corey Michael (VR) 5p, Debi the Deacons (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Original: Dwight Breland (PP) 5p, Late as Usual (PP) 9p

FRIDAY DECEMBER 12
Apple Barrel: Kenny Holladay Rick Westin 3p, the Hip Shakers (BL) 11p
Arnaud's Jazz Bistro: the Gumbo Trio (JV) 6:30p
Balcony Music Club: Dash Rip Rock (RR) 9p
Banks Street Bar: Johnny J. the Hitmen (RR) 10:30p
Blue Nile: Dr. Gonzeaux, Soul Rebels Brass Band (BB MJ) 10p
Bombay Club: Lisa Lynn Trio (RB) 9:30p
Café Beignet: Steamboat Willie Jazz Band (JV) 6p
Carousel Lounge (Hotel Monteleone): John Autin (PK) 9p
Carrollton Station: Jenn Howard and Crazy McGee (RR) 10p
Circle Bar: Jason Isbell Duo (RR) 10p
CoCo Club: Marva Wright (BL) 9p
Creole Queen Paddlewheeler: New Orleans Spice (JV) 7p
Crescent City Brewhouse: New Orleans Streetbeat (JV) 6p
d.b.a.: Papa Grows Funk (FK) 10p
Dos Jefes: Swing Cat's Ball with Tom Hook (BL JV) 10p
Dragon's Den: Sway, DJ Finger Prince, DJ Dub Insurgent, DJ Tall Jamal (VR) 10p
Fritzel's: Chris Clifton and Barry Foulon (TJ) 9p
Funky Pirate: Mark the Pentones (BL) 4p, Big Al Carson the Blues Masters (RR) 8p
Hi Ho Lounge: April Hirsch's Birthday Party feat. Die Rotzz and the Bruisers (RR) 10p
Hookah Café: Ladies Night feat. DJ EF Cuttin (RB RH) 10p
Howlin' Wolf: Howlin' Wolf 20th Anniversary Series feat. Stanton Moore, Rich Vogel, Johnny Vidacovich, George Porter, Jr., Russell Batiste and more (FK) 10p
Jazz Emporium: BRW (JV) 8p
Kerry Irish Pub: Chip Wilson (BL) 9p
Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop: Jeff "Snake" Greenberg (PK BL VR) 6p
Le Bon Temps Roule: Joe Krown (PK) 7p, Jealous Monk (RR) 11p
Loews Hotel: YaDonna West feat. Charles Cothran (JV) 7p
Maple Leaf: the Radiators (RR) 10p
Margaritaville: Danny T. (KJ) 7p
Mid-City Lanes Rock 'n' Bowl: Jonny Sketch the Dirty Notes, the Desotos (FK RR) 8p
Norwegian Seaman's Church: Nathalie Nordness 6p
Old Point Bar: Amanda Walker (BL) 7p, Marc Stone (BL) 9:30p
One Eyed Jacks: Slang Angus, 6 Pack Deep, BPM (RR) 10p
Palm Court Jazz Café: Palm Court Jazz Band feat. Thais Clark (JV) 8p
Prejean's (Lafayette): Gevais Matte the Branch Playboys (KJ) 7p
Preservation Hall: Preservation Hall Jazz Masters feat. Leroy Jones (TJ) 8p
Rivershack: Christian Serpas Ghost Town (CW) 9:30p
Saturn Bar: Happy Talk Band (RR) 10p
Snug Harbor: Ellis Marsalis (MJ) 8 10p
Steamboat Natchez: Dinner Jazz Cruise feat. Dukes of Dixieland (TJ) 7p
Tipitina's: La Soiree Musicale feat. the Lusher Jazz Band with Kent Jordan, Stanton Moore Trio (VR) 8p
Tropical Isle Beach Club: Waylon Thibodeaux (PP) 5p, Willie Locket (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Bourbon: Corey Michael (VR) 5p, Debi the Deacons (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Original: Al Hebert (PP) 5p, Late as Usual (PP) 9p
Yo Mama's: live audience interactive improv comedy (CO) 8p, Gal Holiday the Honky Tonk Revue (CW) 10p

SATURDAY DECEMBER 13
Apple Barrel: Sneaky Pete (BL) 8p, the Hip Shakers (BL) 11p
Arnaud's Jazz Bistro: the Gumbo Trio (JV) 6:30p
Banks Street Bar: Black Snow, the Switchblade Combs (RR) 10p
Blue Nile: Groovesect (FK) 11p, Truth Universal (upstairs) (OR) 10p
Bombay Club: Julie Jules Trio (JV) 9:30p
Café Beignet: Steamboat Willie Jazz Band (JV) 6p
Carousel Lounge (Hotel Monteleone): John Autin (PK) 9p
Carrollton Station: the Good God Damn Show (RR) 10p
Circle Bar: Metronome the City, Magic Legs, Smiley with a Knife (RR) 10p
CoCo Club: Kurt Brunus Project (BL) 9p
Creole Queen Paddlewheeler: New Orleans Spice (JV) 7p
Crescent City Brewhouse: New Orleans Streetbeat (JV) 6p
d.b.a.: Blue Mountain (OR) 11p
Dos Jefes: Acoustic Swiftness (BL JV) 10p
Dragon's Den: Pilaseca (VR) 10p the Other Planets (upstairs) (RR) 10p
Fritzel's: Charlie Fardella (TJ) 9p
Funky Pirate: Mark the Pentones (BL) 4p, Big Al Carson the Blues Masters (RR) 8p
Hi Ho Lounge: Paul Webb's Birthday Party feat. Hawg Jaw and Spickle (RR) 10p
Hookah Café: Melao feat. DJ Sosa DJ Lemonhead (LT) 9p
House of Blues: Back in Black AC/DC Tribute, Appetite for Destruction (RR) 8p
Howlin' Wolf: Howlin' Wolf 20th Anniversary Series feat. Zebra and Lillian Axe (RR) 10p
Jazz Emporium: Lewis Blues Band (BL) 3:30p, Chucky C. Clearly Blue (BL) 8p
Kerry Irish Pub: Balsawood Flyers (BL) 5p, Hurricane Refugees (BL) 9p
Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop: Jeff "Snake" Greenberg (PK BL VR) 6p
Le Bon Temps Roule: Sunpie Barnes the Louisiana Sunspots (BL) 11p
Loews Hotel: Charles Cothran (PK) 7p
Maple Leaf: the Radiators (RR) 10p
Margaritaville: Irving Bannister's All-stars (RB) 4p
Mid-City Lanes Rock 'n' Bowl: Big Sam's Funky Nation (MJ FK) 9:30p
Old Point Bar: Delfeayo Marsalis (MJ) 5p, the Bourbon Cowboys (RR) 9:30p
One Eyed Jacks: the Bad Off, Good Guys, the Pat Sajak Assasins (RR) 10p
Palm Court Jazz Café: Palm Court Jazz Band feat. Lionel Ferbos (JV) 8p
Prejean's (Lafayette): Gervais Matte the Branch Playboys (KJ) 9a 7p
Preservation Hall: Preservation Hall Jazz Band feat. William Smith (TJ) 8p
Rivershack: Tiki the Rythen Rocker (BL RR) 10p
Rusty Nail: DJ Third World Nathan (RG) 10p
Snug Harbor: Astral Project (MJ) 8 10p
Steamboat Natchez: Dinner Jazz Cruise feat. Dukes of Dixieland (TJ) 7p
Tipitina's: Cajun Zydeco Dance Festival feat. Geno Delafose, Zion Harmonizers, Curley Taylor, Al Bernard and many more (ZY KJ) 1p, Cajun Zydeco Dance Festival feat. Steve Riley the Mamou Playboys, Bruce Daigrepont and Leon Chavez (KJ) 5p
Tropical Isle Beach Club: Waylon Thibodeaux (PP) 5p, Willie Locket (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Bourbon: Corey Michael (VR) 5p, Debi the Deacons (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Original: Al Hebert (PP) 1p, Dwight Breland (PP) 5p, Late as Usual (PP) 9p
Yo Mama's: live audience interactive improv comedy (CO) 8p, Honey Island Swamp Band (RR) 10p

SUNDAY DECEMBER 14
Apple Barrel: Sebastian (BL) 3p, Rollin' Hills (BL) 8p, Mike Darby (BL) 10:30p
Arnaud's Jazz Bistro: the Gumbo Trio (JV) 10:30a 6:30p
Balcony Music Club: Gal Holiday (CW) 9p
Banks Street Bar: Latin Dance Night, Los Pingus (LT) 8p
Bombay Club: Philip Melancon (PK) 7p
Café Beignet: Steamboat Willie Jazz Band (JV) 6p
Circle Bar: Monstrous, Black Primer (RR) 10p
CoCo Club: Kurt Brunus Project (BL) 7p
d.b.a.: Palmetto Bug Stompers (JV) 6p, Irene Sage (JV) 10p
Dragon's Den: Corrosion (upstairs) (RR) 10p
Fritzel's: Lisa Lynn (TJ) 9p
Funky Pirate: Mark the Pentones (BL) 4p, Willie Locket (BL) 8p
Hookah Café: Gov't Majik (RH) 9p
House of Blues: Sunday Gospel Brunch (GS) 9:30a
Jazz Emporium: Tribal Butterfly (JV) 3:30p, BRW (BL) 8p
Kerry Irish Pub: Mike Ryan (BL) 9p
Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop: Jeff "Snake" Greenberg (PK BL VR) 6p
Maple Leaf: Joe Krown, Russell Batiste and Walter "Wolfman" Washington (BL FK) 10p
Margaritaville: Irving Bannister's All-stars (RB) 4p, Eddie Parino (RR) 7p
Marigny Brasserie: Pfister Sisters (JV) 11:45a
Muriel's Jackson Square: jazz brunch feat. Joe Simon (JV) 11a
Old Point Bar: Jesse Moore (RR) 6p
Palm Court Jazz Café: Sunday Night Swingsters feat. Steve Pistorius (JV) 8p
Prejean's (Lafayette): Clarece Denias (KJ) 9a, Gervais Matte the Branch Playboys (KJ) 7p
Preservation Hall: Ingrid Lucia (TJ) 8p
Snug Harbor: James Singleton (MJ) 8 10p
Spotted Cat: Rites of Swing (JV) 4p
Steamboat Natchez: Dinner Jazz Cruise feat. Dukes of Dixieland (TJ) 7p
Tipitina's: Sunday Music Workshop Series feat. Leslie Smith (VR) 12:30p
Trinity Church: Trinity Artist Series feat. Messiah Sing Along XXII (CL) 5p
Tropical Isle Beach Club: Waylon Thibodeaux (PP) 5p
Tropical Isle Bourbon: Corey Michael (VR) 5p, Debi the Deacons (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Original: Al Hebert (PP) 9p

MONDAY DECEMBER 15
Apple Barrel: Sam Cammarata and Dominick Grillo (BL) 8p, the Hip Shakers (BL) 10:30p
Arnaud's Jazz Bistro: the Gumbo Trio (JV) 6:30p
Banks Street Bar: Beaucoup Crasseaux (BL) 10p
CoCo Club: Gina Brown (BL) 7p
d.b.a.: Rich Vogel Organ Trio (JV) 10p
Dos Jefes: John Fohl (BL JV) 9:30p
Dragon's Den: Justin Peake's Acoustic Trio (AU) 8p, Diesel Combustion Orchestra (JV) 10p
Fritzel's: Tim Laughlin and John Royen (TJ) 9p
Funky Pirate: Willie Locket (BL) 8p
Hi Ho Lounge: Bluegrass Pickin' Party (BU) 8p
House of Blues: ohGr, American Memory Project (RR) 9p
Jazz Emporium: Tribal Butterfly (JV) 8p
Kerry Irish Pub: Paul Tobin (BL) 9p
Maple Leaf: Papa Grows Funk (FK) 10p
Margaritaville: Brint Anderson (BL) 7p
Prejean's (Lafayette): Les Freres Michot (KJ) 7p
Preservation Hall: 726 Jazz Band feat. William Smith (TJ) 8p
Snug Harbor: Charmaine Neville (MJ) 8 10p
Spotted Cat: Jerry Jumonville (JV RB) 6:30p
Tropical Isle Bourbon: Partytime Band (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Original: Bruce Bono (PP) 9p

TUESDAY DECEMBER 16
Apple Barrel: Mike Sklar (BL) 8p, Kenny Schwartz the Palace of Sin (BL) 10:30p
Arnaud's Jazz Bistro: the Gumbo Trio (JV) 6:30p
Banks Street Bar: Reggae Jam feat. the Uppressors (RG) 10p
Blue Nile: Jeff Albert Quartet (MJ) 9:30p
Carrollton Station: acoustic open mic night (AU) 10p
Circle Bar: Jeff Treffinger's 50th Birthday feat. the Geraniums (RR) 10p
CoCo Club: Gina Brown (BL) 7p
d.b.a.: Johnny Vidacovich Trio (JV) 10p
Dos Jefes: Tom Hook (BL JV) 9:30p
Dragon's Den: Martin Krusche (JV) 10p
Fritzel's: Tom McDermott (TJ) 9p
Funky Pirate: Big Al Carson the Blues Masters (BL) 8p
House of Blues: the Night the B Stole Christmas feat. Gavin Degraw, Lady GaGa, Metro Station and the Vettes (RR) 8p
Jazz Emporium: Tribal Butterfly (JV) 8p
Kerry Irish Pub: Jason Bishop (BL) 9p
Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop: Jeff "Snake" Greenberg (PK BL VR) 6p
Le Chat Noir: Theresa Andersson (one woman show) 8p
Maple Leaf: Rebirth Brass Band (BB) 10p
Margaritaville: Brint Anderson (BL) 7p
Mid-City Lanes Rock 'n' Bowl: Los Poboycitos (LT RR) 8:30p
Prejean's (Lafayette): Woody Daigle (KJ) 7p
Preservation Hall: Preservation Hall-stars feat. Shannon Powell (TJ) 8p
Snug Harbor: Jesse McBride the Next Generation (MJ) 8 10p
Southport Hall: Live Band Karaoke (RR) 9p
Trinity Church: Organ Labyrinth (CL) 6p
Tropical Isle Bourbon: Partytime Band (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Original: Dwight Breland (PP) 9p
Voodoo Barbecue: Marc Stone's Voodoo Duo feat. Patrick Williams (BL) 6p
Yo Mama's: Beth Patterson (FE) 8p

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 17
Apple Barrel: Sista Otis (BL) 8p, Andre Bouvier the Royal Bohemians (BL) 10:30p
Arnaud's Jazz Bistro: the Gumbo Trio (JV) 6:30p
Banks Street Bar: Gravity A (RR) 11p
Blue Nile: Dr. Gonzeaux (MJ) 10p
Carousel Lounge (Hotel Monteleone): John Autin (PK) 9p
Carrollton Station: stand-up comedy open mic night (CO) 9p
Circle Bar: Helen Gilley Friends (RR) 10p
CoCo Club: Marva Wright (BL) 7p
d.b.a.: Walter "Wolfman" Washington the Roadmasters (BL) 10p
Dos Jefes: Bob Andrews (BL JV) 9:30p
Dragon's Den: Dancehall Classics feat. DJ T- Roy (RG) 10p
Fritzel's: Charlie Fardella (TJ) 9p
Funky Pirate: Big Al Carson the Blues Masters (BL) 8p
Hookah Café: Latin Night feat. DJ Sosa (LT) 9p
Jazz Emporium: BRW (JV) 8p
Kerry Irish Pub: Chip Wilson (BL) 9p
Maple Leaf: Jamie Bernstein (FK) 10p
Margaritaville: Brint Anderson (BL) 7p
Mid-City Lanes Rock 'n' Bowl: Swing Night feat. Jerry Embree (SI) 8:30p
Palm Court Jazz Café: Palm Court Jazz Band feat. Lars Edegran (JV) 8p
Prejean's (Lafayette): Woody Daigle (KJ) 7p
Preservation Hall: Essential New Orleans Jazz Band feat. Carl LeBlanc (TJ) 8p
Rusty Nail: Jenn Howard (OR) 6p
Snug Harbor: Irvin Mayfield the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra (MJ) 8 10p
Spotted Cat: Pfister Sisters (JV) 6:30p
Tipitina's: Coot and guests (RR) 10p
Trinity Church: gospel workshop feat. Albert Bemiss (GS) 6:30p
Tropical Isle Bourbon: Partytime Band (PP) 9p
Tropical Isle Original: Dwight Breland (PP) 9p

CLASSICAL

DECEMBER 7-28
Trinity Artist Series: Albinas Prizgintas presents this eclectic concert series every Sunday throughout December at Trinity Church, 1329 Jackson Ave. Check the OffBeat daily listings for scheduled performances. 5p.

DECEMBER 11 13
Christmas Oratorio: Come experience the magic of Bach's rarely performed Oratorio written for performance over the Twelve Days of Christmas. Trinity Episcopal Church. Thu. 7:30p, Sat. 8p. (504) 523-6530, www.lpomusic.org.

DECEMBER 17
Handel, Messiah: Celebrate the season with this festive tradition with a concert featuring Rebecca Miller, Elizabeth Keusch, Jennifer Lane, Steve Tharp, Michael Dean and more. First Baptist New Orleans. 7:30p. The concert also comes to Covington on 12/18 at St. Joseph Seminary College. (504) 523-6530, www.lpomusic.org.

CONCERTS

DECEMBER 12 13
Terry Steele: The guy who penned Luther Vandross' "Here and Now" comes to Harrah's for two nights of sizzling entertainment. 8p.

FESTIVALS

DECEMBER 8-14
DesCours Festival: The American Institute of Architects puts on an architecture and art festival featuring architecture, visual art and entertainment. Visit www.descours.us for more information and a schedule of events.

DECEMBER 12-14, 24
Festival of the Bonfires: Witness blazing bonfires and enjoy some festival fun on the banks of the Mississippi River in Lutcher. (225) 869-1717, www.festivalofthebonfires.org.

HOLIDAY EVENTS

THROUGH DECEMBER 30
Celebration in the Oaks: Celebrate the holidays in City Park with lighted figurines and a Christmas village with live music, food, art and displays. (504) 483-9415, www.celebrationintheoaks.com.

THROUGH JANUARY 6
Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights: Make a weekend trip up to Natchitoches for one of the finest and largest Christmas festivals in the South. There will be plenty of lights, entertainment and food along with trolley and carriage rides. (318) 352-8072, www.christmasfestival.com.

DECEMBER 1-23
Cathedral Concerts: The St. Louis Cathedral hosts a series of free concerts of Christmas music by local choirs and prominent musicians including Ellis Marsalis, Phillip Manuel and Theresa Andersson. The series starts December 1 at 6 p.m. with Irvin Mayfield. For a schedule, go to "Christmas New Orleans Style" at www.fqfi.org.

DECEMBER 2-20
Chef's Holiday Cooking Demonstrations: Learn how to prepare some great holiday dishes from some of the best chefs in town. The Shops at Canal Place. Wed.-Thu. 3p. (504) 522-5730.

SPECIAL EVENTS

THROUGH JANUARY 18
Prospect.1 New Orleans: Witness the largest biennial of international contemporary art ever organized in the United States. For more information, a schedule and list of locations, visit www.prospectneworleans.org.

DECEMBER 6-27
Gretna Farmer's Market: Head to Gretna every Saturday for a farmer's market featuring food and wine vendors and cooking demonstrations. 8:30a-12:30p. www.gretnala.com.

DECEMBER 13
Sankofa Marketplace: Held every second Saturday of the month in the Lower 9th Ward, this market features fresh produce, arts and crafts, live music, health screenings, children's activities and more. www.sankofamarketplace.org.

DECEMBER 13 20
Bywater Art Market: The fun art market features paintings, pottery, glass, furniture and more. 9a-4p. www.bywaterartmarket.com.

THEATER AND DANCE

DECEMBER 4-21
Christmas at the Crawfords: Taking place on Christmas Eve, 1944, this production musical comedy plays at the Marigny Theatre. (504) 218-8559, www.marignytheatre.org.

DECEMBER 5-28
Scrooge in Rouge: Enjoy A Christmas Carol re-imagined as a Music Hall show with three of New Orleans' funniest actors playing all of the roles. Fri.- Sat. 8p, Sun. 6p. (504) 581-5812, www.cabaretlechatnoir.com.

Theresa Andersson will perform at Le Chat Noir Tuesday at 8 p.m. She has been touring her most recent album Hummingbird, Go! around the country including a stop at New York City's CMJ Music Marathon, and she recently was asked to record a vocal for David Byrne's upcoming album. She and the new album have made an impression, with "Birds Fly Away" selected as NPR's "Song of the Day last week, and the album designated as Starbucks' "Have You Heard" CD in January. She has also been scheduled to appear on Late Night with Conan O'Brien on February 4.

Modern Bourbon Street landmark the Tropical Isle opened in 1984 during the World's Fair, and this weekend it celebrates its 25th anniversary. The business has grown from one bar to five, including Tropical Isle's Beach Club - which regularly features Waylon Thibodeaux - and the Funky Pirate, the home of Big Al Carson. On Saturday afternoon, the Tropical Isle Bourbon Street will host a block party in the 700 block of Bourbon from noon to 6 p.m. with music by Jerry Diaz and Hannah's Reef (noon), Brandon Giles (3 p.m.) and Amanda Shaw (5 p.m.). There will be drink specials including 25-cent draft beer from 3 to 6 p.m. and giveaways all afternoon.

Thursday night, DJ Samantha Ronson will be the guest DJ at Club Ampersand (1100 Tulane Ave.) starting at 10 p.m. along with resident DJ Beverly Skillz. She'll be a part of Ampersand's "FLVR" night, which focuses on remixes and mash-ups. Ronson has been in the news recently because of her relationship with Lindsay Lohan, who we're told is scheduled to make an appearance. Doors open at 10 p.m.

We could start the countdown of shopping days until Christmas, but that would just add stress. Instead, let's look at this week's seasonal events.

Friday night, there will be Candlelight Caroling in the Faubourg Marigny from 6 to 7 p.m. It takes place in Washington Square at Frenchmen and Royal streets, and song sheets, candles, coffee and cookies will be provided. For details, go to FaubourgMarigny.org.

On Saturday, the Jazz and Heritage Foundation will hold its Jazz and Heritage Holiday Bazaar in the Jazz and Heritage Gallery (1205 N. Rampart St.) Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. It coincides with the Treme Creole Gumbo Festival and will have Jazz Fest clothing, posters and memorabilia for sale. Also Saturday, the "Frerestivus" Holiday Festival will take place from noon to 5 p.m. at Freret Street near Napoleon. There will be over 100 vendors, a Festivus pole, and music by the Space Heaters (noon), the Stringbeans (1:45) and Billy Iuso and the Restless Natives (3:30). The Esplanade Holiday Fest starts Saturday at 3 p.m. where Ponce de Leon Street meets Esplanade. There will be an art market, a crafts table for kids, two bands, and a visit from Santa at 6 p.m. There will also be a Toys for Tots Art Exchange Saturday at the Green Project (2831 Marais St.) sponsored by NoLA Rising. From 5 to 9 p.m., those who bring in a new toy in a box will receive a free piece of artwork made at a NoLA Rising Paint Party. Saturday night, the Big Top hosts the Holladay Hop, a night of funky hip-hop.

Sunday afternoon from 3 to 5 p.m., DJ Soul Sister will host her second annual "Holiday Crate Dig" at Domino Sound Record Shack (2557 Bayou Rd., just off of Broad Street). She'll spin selections from the Domino Sound stock and talk vinyl, rare groove and soul with the shoppers. Refreshments will be provided, and there will be giveaways.

Christmas concerts in St. Louis Cathedral continue this week. Sunday night, Ellis Marsalis performs, followed on Monday by Rudy Mills and the Caribbean Funk with Los Sol Dados, Tuesday by Rachel van Voorhees and Friends, and Wednesday by the Ebenezer Baptist Church Choir. All shows start at 6 p.m. and are free.

Post your views on this week's Weekly Beat here.

If these pianos could talk, they would share with you the stories they've garnered from the energies of past recording sessions and the people who visited The Old Firehouse Studio in Uptown New Orleans. They would tell you tell you stories about the good times that Eddie and his friends had while recording his latest CDs.

The energies absorbed in these pianos from the music experiences at The Old Firehouse make for a prized possession--and wonderful conversation piece. Their beauty is only lagniappe.

Eddie is selling two studio pianos:

Black lacquer Grand with Bench
SKG-500S -- Kohler Company - est. 1896
Eddie's Studio Piano at The Old Firehouse on Toledano Street in New Orleans, LA.
This is the piano he used during the recording of his latest CDs.

2) Marbury Grand Piano with bench - B429 - by Sohmer Company of New York Each piano will be autographed by Eddie Bo.

For more information on pricing, call Veronica (504) 269-4408 or Karen (337) 288-5546 to purchase.

OFFBEAT HOME DELIVERY The only way to truly keep up with the musical cosmos of New Orleans (and Louisiana) is by subscribing to OffBeat. Besides having OffBeat hand-delivered to their mailboxes, OffBeat subscribers receive a variety of free CDs throughout the year, including our annual "Best of the Beat" CD. A one- year subscription to OffBeat is $29; a two- year subscription is $50 To subscribe by credit card, call (toll-free) 1-877-944-4300. We graciously accept VISA, MasterCard, American Express or Discover. To subscribe by mail, send check or money order to OffBeat Subscriptions, 421 Frenchmen Street, Suite 200, New Orleans, LA 70116-2506. Or subscribe online at SubscribeOnline