As families trailed the band Bahamas Junkanoo parading down Albert Avenue in downtown East Lansing, the sounds of traditional folk musicians had many scuffling for seats in the grass to listen.
After the elaborate parade ended behind Crunchy’s, 254 W. Grand River Ave., WKAR (90.5-FM) radio personality Bob Blackman, host of “Traditional Folk,” kicked off the Great Lakes Folk Festival events Friday at the Valley Court Stage.
“I think the music is a big attraction and people of all ages came out,” Blackman said. “We decided to open with Matapat because we felt they we’re an excellent group and the people would like them.”
The French-Canadian trio broke the ice with their electric guitars and narrative style. They opened with “La Vendee,” a song about three guys traveling on tour who meet a beautiful girl.
Matapat guitarist Benoit Bourque said he was excited about how well the crowd responded to them. Folk music traditionally uses acoustic instruments, and Matapat was the only group to use an electric guitar.
“In France, the young people are just beginning to listen to this type of music,” he said. “They’ve added their own lyrics and music to enjoy it, but I love to see it.”
Bourque said it was refreshing to see the young people attending the festival and enjoying his band’s music.
Other artist performing on opening night were Liz Carroll, Steve Meisner, La Inspiracion and Honey Boy Edwards.
Edwards, an 80-year-old blues artist originally from Mississippi, said he was just returning from playing a festival in Germany.
“I really enjoy playing the blues. I’ve played festivals all over the nation and in other countries,” he said. “I have been playing the blues for 70 years.”
Nathan and the Zydeco Cha-Chas electrified the hundreds watching their performance Sunday at the dance stage. The band, hailing from Louisiana, described their music as an eclectic mix of Cajun and blues.
“Our performances were 100-plus,” said Eric Bosshoggminix, drummer for the Cha-Cha’s. “We gave it 100-plus, and the crowd took it to 100-and-two-plus.”
Bath Township resident Connie Beauvais said she came to the festival just to see the Cha-Chas’ performance.
“The band really excites me,” Beauvais said. “I had to get out of my seat and dance, it’s infectious.”
That infectious mentality seems to be abundant with folk music, as its intended to be the music of the common people.
East Lansing resident Jim Lammers said he is a regular of folk festivals in East Lansing. He brought his three sons and family dog to enjoy the music and atmosphere of the festival.
“Whenever I come to a folk festival I realize how much great music is out there,” Lammers said.
“It’s festivals like this one that make East Lansing such a special place to live.”
