The Dish on the Local Music Scene: Part 1

Since iPod commercials stopped using U2 songs and started featuring bands like Feist and The Submarines, the term “indie” has been thrown around more than praise for the latest Animal Collective album.

But what defines the genre is as varied as the plethora of sounds on that same Animal Collective album. The New Orleans indie scene — whatever your interpretation — contains a little bit of music for everyone, from the feel-good, vintage aesthetic of Generationals to the beautiful, rollicking noise pop of Caddywhompus.

Even people not privy to the scene’s sweet sounds have probably heard of MyNameIsJohnMichael, the solo-turned-group project of John Michael Rouchell. Now a city staple, their hyper-catchy brand of dance-rock with a dash of New Orleans flair is a rare treat, especially delivered live. But what’s great about the band is that it serves as a great jumping off point for many more illustrious New Orleans musicians. MNIJM multi-instrumentalist Leo DeJesus fronted the late, great Franz Ferdinand-esque The City Life, and currently shows a softer, more soulful side performing under the moniker Vox and the Hound. On the other hand, Joe Bourgeois, Eric Rogers and Cory Schultz moonlight as parts of the complex and eclectic nine-piece Antenna Inn, whose members sound perfectly natural placing smooth jazz and prog-rock alongside each other on the same track.

For a quieter side of the city scene, try the unforgettable Hooray for the Riff Raff. The haunting three-piece band weaves delicate folk tunes that build upon singer/banjo-wielding Alynda Lee Segarra’s husky vocals with country-tinged violins and accordions. Just as impressive is Theresa Andersson, a Swedish-born transplant to the city whose multi-instrumental approach to music rivals even indie mainstay Andrew Bird. Performing entirely solo except for the looping mechanisms that continually layer parts of her performance, Andersson’s method needs to be seen to believed (and since she isn’t in town at the moment, you should check out the YouTube video of her playing “Birds Fly Away” alone in her kitchen).

Yet these few performers are hardly the full extent of the local scene. If you’re interested in truly tasting the buffet of New Orleans indie, check out the upcoming New Orleans Indie Rock Fest 3 taking place Nov. 20 at One Eyed Jacks and Nov. 21 at Blue Nile.