Hot 8 comes to Richmond to talk and play

There was a wonderful Q&A session with members of New Orleans' own Hot 8 Brass Band last night in the Alice Jepson Theatre. It was held in conjunction with the second night of a film screening of Spike Lee's HBO documentary, When the Levee's Broke. The band members, who are featured in the film, took questions from the audience and discussed life in New Orleans before and since Hurricane Katrina. It was truly remarkable that they were here in Richmond at all, given that the band scattered all over once an evacuation of New Orleans was mandated due to Gustav. As it is, two musicians and the tour manager didn't reach Richmond for the Q&A. That didn't detract from the impact of the stories we heard. It was very touching to hear their stories, and though they all evacuated New Orleans as Katrina approached, they had much to share about the devastation the hurricane left in its path. The Modlin Center will post the Q&A as a podcast in a few days, so look for it. These guys are truly amazing.

The Hot 8 is also in town for two performances today. They will perform outdoors on the Lower Forum here on campus (lunchtime concert from 11:45 am-12:45 pm), and later head downtown to participate in the First Fridays Art Walk from 7-10 pm. We are extremely excited about these outdoor performances. Hot 8 had its beginnings as a Second Line band, leading parades through the streets of New Orleans. If the weather holds out, they will lead a parade tonight to kick off First Fridays and the 1708 Gallery's InLight Richmond festival. However, if it rains as expected, the band will be stationary, taking cover. The band will play three sets during the evening, so there are lots of opportunities to experience Hot 8 live without traveling to New Orleans. Come out and join us. We'll be there rain or shine!

Samantha