Henry Clement and the Gumbo Band return to set the Freight stage sizzling, New Orleans-style! From the moment they enter with a roof-raising, Big Easy-style "second line" march, accordionist and pianist Henry and his swinging combo keep pulses a-pumpin' with their unstoppable groove. Featuring a red-hot mixture of zydeco, blues, New Orleans rhumba boogie, R&B, and funk, Henry's outfit presents classic gems like "Hey Pockaway" and "Mardi Gras Mambo," plus plenty of great originals.

A familiar sight at festivals around the Bay Area, bandleader Henry is also accomplished on the piano accordion, harmonica, and drums. Raised in Lafayette, Louisiana—the heart of zydeco country—Henry began playing at dances throughout Louisiana, Texas, and Mississippi before the age of 10. He recorded a dozen singles while in college in Baton Rouge, starting with "Plea of Love," released in 1958; more recently, he has released several CDs with the Gumbo Band.

When he relocated to Oakland in the 1970s, Henry brought along his music as well as his colorful Mardi Gras Indian costume—"Big Chief Takawaka is sure to put in an appearance at tonight's performance. Their evocations of the sights and sounds of Louisiana make the band's performances an extra-spicy treat. Come on down and be ready to boogie!