I have just returned from the annual Rainforest World Music Festival in Sarawak, the 14th year is has been held and the 6th one I have attended. As usual there was a good vibe at the festival and an eclectic line-up of musicians from around the globe. Truth to be told I wasn’t going to go this year but am gald I did. There were some stellar acts including Lisa Haley and the Zydekats from the USA, the Blue Canyon Boys also from the USA, Mamak Khadem from Iran, and the fantastic Warsaw Village Band from Poland. So what persuaded me to get on a plane and travel to Sarawak? Well that would be Paddy Keenan. More on him in the next instalment. Meanwhile, here’s a handful of images of the Zydekats.
One of the highlights of Saturday was Lisa Haley and the Zydekats. The tight band played a rousing blend of Zydeco and Cajun rhythms that whipped the capacity crowd into a frenzy.
Accordion diva and vocalist, Gigi ‘Gee’ Rabe was an energetic performer, singing and jamming with Lisa on the hot and humid evening. Guitarist Chuck Alvarez also added tasty licks to the steamy sound of the Louisiana swamp.
August 13th, 2013 at 5:44 am
Dear Mick:
I just saw your blog this evening – Mon Aug 12, 2013.
Thank you so very much!!
for your kind words about our show for the July 2011 Rainforest World Music Festival in Borneo, Malaysia.
This was a most wonderful festival, an experience which we will never forget!!
We hope to cross paths with you again soon,
Love, Lisa Haley & the Zydekats
August 13th, 2013 at 6:39 am
Hi Lisa – thanks for getting in touch. Yes, what a great event the Rainforest World Music Festival is. It’s worth noting that Malaysia also has a world music festival on the island of Penang now. A smaller event but very nice. See here: http://www.mickshippen.com/2013/04/penang-world-music-festival-2013/
I’m based in Bangkok, so do get in touch if you are ever in Thailand.
Cheers,
Mick