A capacity crowd filled Barrel 118 in downtown Eatonton on Friday night to hear jazz trumpeter and singer Byron Stripling’s Mardi Gras and All That Jazz, presented by the Oconee Performing Arts Society (OPAS).
A masterful trumpeter and charismatic vocalist with a long list of Grade-A jazz credentials, Stripling captivated the OPAS crowd with a performance that seamlessly blended New Orleans-style jazz, blues, and swing with humor and personal anecdotes.
Stripling's virtuosity was undeniable from the first blast of his trumpet. His technical precision, effortless improvisation, and deep connection to the music created an exhilarating atmosphere.
Whether soaring through high-energy numbers like “When the Saints Go Marching In,” delivering soulful, blues-infused ballads such as “Basin Street Blues,” or performing well-known classics like “What a Wonderful World,” his rich, expressive voice added a layer of charm while evoking warmth and nostalgia.
The incomparable Bobby Floyd, on piano and Hammond B3 organ, added to the evening's magic. Another true jazz legend, Floyd’s artistry brought the spirit of classic jazz to life, especially when he unleashed the legendary Wurlitzer sounds of the Hammond, filling the venue with its unmistakable warmth and richness.
Beyond the music, Stripling’s engaging storytelling and humor wove seamlessly into the performance, offering the audience a glimpse into his remarkable career and personal experiences. His warmth and charisma created an intimate connection, making the concert feel like a gathering of close friends rather than a packed venue.
The enthusiastic audience clapped, laughed, and reveled in the spirit of Mardi Gras, fully immersed in the evening’s joyful celebration.
Following his concert, Stripling, 63, spent a few minutes in front of about 40 OPAS attendees, answering questions about his life and career. He even performed an acapella bonus song that his father used to sing to him as a child.
“I feel music has great power,” Stripling said in response to one audience query. “It’s got the power to make you run when there’s nothing behind you. It’s got the power to make you laugh when there ain’t nothing funny. It’s got the power to make you cry when there’s nothing sad. And we need to elicit those emotions again; that’s our therapy. So go to your therapist and take care of that business, but music is some great therapy, too.”
Set against the stylish and rustic ambiance of Barrel 118, the night presented a perfect blend of world-class musicianship, dynamic stage presence, and audience engagement.
Mardi Gras and All That Jazz was more than just a concert; it was a soul-stirring, jubilant experience that left OPAS attendees uplifted and wanting more.