“Music in the spotlights” : concert with the JAMBALAYANS !

Wednesday 9 July 2025 at 9pm is ‘Place à la Musique’. Join the JAMBALAYANS as they put their own spin on New Orleans funk: a tasty ‘gumbo’ to savour!

JAMBALAYANS weren’t born in New Orleans and don’t live in the bayou (but they’re not far from the Camargue, so there’s that…). But the musicians in this group are so good at capturing the city’s festive and spiritual charm…

They cook up Louisiana’s rhythm’n’blues repertoire, its carnival tunes and the bewitching rhythms of the Mardis Gras Indians, making forays into funk, blues, soul, jazz, with a zest of reggae, a pinch of calypso… In short, a tasty gumbo!

JAMBALAYANS is :

Virginie Ibañez (k-boards, whistle & vocals): some say she’s Professor Longhair’s hidden granddaughter. It’s true that, like the illustrious New Orleans pianist, her fingers wander joyfully over the ebony and ivory keys. And it’s hard not to fall in love with his radiant smile… But mèfi, she’s the one whistling at the guys!

Zach Halidi (lead vocal): a voice! With his presence and charisma, this colossus captivates the audience from the very first bars. The night JAMBALAYANS found this rare gem was a blessed day (and vice versa). Amen to that!

Christophe Rossi ( drums & vocals): For a long time, he dreamed of being able to play this music: the funk of New Orleans, the infectious groove of Mardis Gras Indians, the blues of the bayou… All he had to do was find the right musicians… His wish was granted! Thanx Papa Legba!

Philippe Ripoll (polybass & vocals): an infallible groove, whatever instrument is lucky enough to pass through his nimble fingers! Soul runs through his veins. In short, he’s got it made!

Pierre Le Cam (guitar): this young musician has dabbled in rock and metal, but with JAMBALAYANS he’s discovered a new musical universe that he electrifies with mastery.

Véronique Halidi (vocals): the latest addition to the group, this singer brings a gospel and soul flavour to the JAMBALAYANS’ already rich repertoire.

Join them in celebrating this music, sharing the New Orleans motto that JAMBALAYANS have made their own: ‘Let the good times roll!

Organised by the Events Department of the Moustiers-Ste-Marie Tourist Office