Lynch at Large

Riverfest is not exactly on my list of Top Ten Favorite Lyncho Events, nonetheless, my pal John McClure, has put together “Rhythm and Cruise,” a late night of good music that might be the highlight of your weekend. You can get reservations on the website of his company, Arkansas Convention and Event Marketing.

I interviewed John this morning and it was highly informative. You can listen free on my home page, lyncho.com.

Here is the release.

Music fans eagerly awaiting the arrival of the 2007 Riverfest will have a new musical event to add to their anticipation. The popular arts and music festival, in conjunction with Arkansas Convention and Marketing and the Arkansas Queen, will celebrate its 30th anniversary with the launch of “Rhythm and Cruise”, a concert and party cruise upon the Arkansas Queen riverboat. The event will spotlight the New Orleans Rhythm Conspiracy, a rhythm and blues powerhouse band featuring an all-star ensemble of New Orleans musicians. For added cultural significance as well as visual and rhythmic delight, the band will be accompanied by fully costumed Mardi Gras Indians.

A product of Hurricane Katrina, the Rhythm Conspiracy was formed by New Orleans bassist Jack Cruz and guitar player George Sartin during their post-Katrina evacuation in Memphis. While displaced, the two collaborated to pay homage to and continue New Orleans’ musical and cultural legacy and soon the New Orleans Rhythm Conspiracy was born. Adding Wilbert “Junkyard Dog” Arnold on drums, Uganda Roberts on percussion and Marilyn Barbarin on blues vocals, the group released their first album, Dancin’ Ground, in 2007, which shows of a driving array of rhythm and blues, rock ‘n’ roll and funky New Orleans street-beat.

The New Orleans Mardi Gras Indians add a uniquely exciting element of history and rhythm to this cruise. Following a tradition born in the 19th century in homage to Native Americans, the Mardi Gras Indians tribes make fantastically ornate hand-sewn beaded and feathered costumes to parade on Fat Tuesday during Mardi Gras and a few select occasions each year. This will be a rare occasion outside of New Orleans to see and hear the magic of a Mardi Gras Indian performance.

“Rhythm and Cruise” promises to be a popular addition to the growing lineup of Riverfest attractions. Tickets for the event go on sale on Thursday, May 10th, 2007

What: “Rhythm and Cruise”
Who: New Orleans Rhythm Conspiracy with Mardi Gras Indians
When: Friday, May 25, 2007
Time: Board @ 10pm, boat departure and show time @ 11pm
Where: Arkansas Queen Riverboat, 100 Riverfront Park Dr.
Cost: $28.50 per ticket (available at riverboat gift shop and online)
www.ARCONVENTIONSANDEVENTS.com
Contact: John McClure 501-993-7502