Nashville Country. Kentucky Bluegrass. Memphis and Delta Mississippi Blues. New Orleans Jazz.
There's no doubt about it: the South is recognized world-wide for its wide array of music. It's not uncommon for visitors to take a road trip through the South simply for the abundance of musical sanctuaries along the way.
In fact, I'm one of them.
I keep a constant eye out for music festivals, events, concerts and newly opened music halls and venues. When I begin planning my next trip South, whether venturing to Kentucky, Louisiana or any other southern state, I make sure to add the musical hot spots I've discovered to my "must-visit" list.
I'll admit, I've been keeping a sharp eye on New Orleans lately. I'm regularly checking for new and fun things to do there. After the wrath of hurricane Katrina a few years ago, New Orleans is even more compelling as it undergoes efforts to physical rebuild and progress on citywide cultural rejuvenation.
One particular grand opening caught my interest recently down in Cajun country.
Michaul's Live Cajun Music Venue and Les Bon Temps Party Hall offers the "total Cajun experience." Located in the French Quarter on St. Charles Avenue, Michaul's offers a taste and feel of authentic New Orleans with genuine Cajun cuisine, live music and even dance lessons in the Les Bon Temps Party Hall.
Reviews on Michaul's have done nothing to discourage my positive first impression either:
"We've eaten and danced at many great places in many great cities, but this is the first time I've been compelled to write. That's how good I feel about our visit to MICHAUL's."
Andy Curran, Cincinnati Board of Realtors
"We took a vote at Cathers and voted our visit to MICHAUL's the most enjoyable night we've ever spent in New Orleans! MICHAUL'S lived up to and exceeded our wildest dreams for the evening."
Cathy McGill, Cathers Publishing House, NY
Anybody ready for a southern music road trip?