Meltdown Day 6 – BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet and Sarah Savoy and the Francadians

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OK, I think I have a few words today, but it is still going to be heavy on the pictures. Today was BeauSoleil. I met up with them at soundcheck (after a beautiful al fresco lunch on the Southbank Centre terrace complete with Richard Thompson on my lunch tray place mat). Even with the hundred and one instruments they carry with them everywhere they go, these pros (coming soon -BeauSoleil’s 35th Anniversary) ticked right through set up, soundcheck, and break down. It was decided that Richard would sit in for 3 songs.

Moving right along, the company trooped out to record an interview and a handful of songs for BBC Radio 2’s Mark Lamarr show. It was obvious the host had a great time with his cajun guests, and the petit studio yielded some great sound. Look for the show in a couple of weeks. I’m not sure if I am allowed to say what they played, but it was totally diverse and tons of fun. Band, host, crew, and guests all had many big laughs. This is getting to be a theme around here.

We arrived back at the concert hall just in time for me to tumble into the auditorium to get he first three songs of Sarah Savoy and the Francadians. They were great!! I had never heard them before, and if you have not either, go fix that. Just as with BeauSoleil, I can’t hear the music without wanting to dance. And, really, who can resist a multitalented, tall, gorgeous brunette with a guitar, a washboard, and wicked sense of humor?

BeauSoleil put on a great show, and when Micahel Doucet announced that they would be joined by their host Richard Thompson I hear audible gasps and one loud, “OH MY GOD!” from the audience. Michael told the story about his high school friend (now his manager!) working at the record store and telling Michael that he had to hear this English band. “Oh, English?” Disdain. “Michael, it has a song called Cajun Woman on it.” And, off they went. Both then, and now.

After the show, the BeauSoleil headed back to their hotel with a morning plane on their minds, but Sarah Savoy and the Francadians headed out to the foyer to play a free dance for an hour or so. With a dance lesson before the concert, there were many couples on the floor. After Teddy Thompson’s show next door let out, they were joined once again by the Director and his lady who cut the rug until the band was done and the lights came. Yep, everyone’s still having fun here.