These pictures are from Wednesday night, when Irwin Mayfield (who was the impetus behind the new club) holds forth with a two-hour radio broadcast each week. Mayfield has been called the next Wynton Marsalis, and from what we heard is already up there with Wynton...and his choice of sidemen is equally accomplished. In addition to his small grou, Irwin has organized the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra somewhat similar to the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, and has commissioned pieces for it. He is a one-man phenom...and a superb trumpet player.

Mike and I decided that this single two hour gig was as good as any jazz club date we have ever heard, and that includes Marsalis, Basie, Brubeck, Mulligan, Rollins, and many more. They are that good.

The picture of Ella, btw, was done by a local artist and was on display in the window of a gallery in the Quarter. I hope I did it justice.