Long before the BP oil spill disaster, and even before Hurricane Katrina and that skank Rita ripped through the Gulf Coast five years ago, the Louisiana shores were already suffering. “Since 1900,” says the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana, “Louisiana has lost more than 1 million acres of wetlands and barrier shoreline as a result of natural processes and human activity.” Louisiana’s land loss not only compromises habitat for fish and wildlife, but it removes a natural buffer against storms. With oil smeared all over the problem, the situation is truly horrifying. While BP scratches its horned skull and throws golf balls and top hats at the leak, what can we do? Something they’d do in Louisiana—throw a party! On Sunday, Aug. 8, at 6 p.m. the Alibi sponsors S.O.S.—Save Our Shores. The bayou ball, which takes place at Blackbird Buvette (509 Central NW), is a benefit for the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana. In addition to collecting donations, 15 percent of the evening’s sales go to CRCL. The ball was the inspiration of former New Orleans dweller DJ Grey, who is also celebrating his birthday. Playing a mixture of swamp pop, soul, mod and indie on the Blackbird patio with Grey are DJs Bea, Brian-Keith, yours truly (my New Orleans vinyl has been begging me to take it out on the town) and other special guests. Performing live for swampy charity are fabulous local Americana acts Up The Holler (old-time music), The Porter Draw (bluegrass) and Blue Rose Ramblers (Western swing).Everyone is invited to put on their dancin’ shoes (or chest waders) and show solidarity with coastal Louisiana this Sunday evening (Facebook users RSVP to the ball here). It’s going to be more fun than dem Boudreaux jokes.
S.o.s.—Bayou Ball Benefit For Gulf Cleanup Efforts
Bayou Ball
2 min read
The official Jeff Drew-designed flyer for the bayou ball
