John ‘Papa’ Gros – Barnoldswick Music And Arts Centre – 18th September 2026

John ‘Papa’ Gros enchants an appreciative audience at BMAC for two 45 minutes sets with his mastery of the keyboard and his New Orleans anecdotes.

KEYBOARD WIZARDRY

Papa Gros is an artist heavily influenced by the likes of Allen Toussaint, Dr John and Professor Longhair of whom my knowledge I freely admit is meagre. However he turned out an exemplary performance of boogie, honky tonk piano wizardry when at times it would seem he had an extra hand.

As well as playing covers from all the above he added many of his own compositions. It was indeed his version of a Levon Helm tune, Hurricane, with John Papa’s own lyrics that held the spirit of The Band when telling the tale of the tragic effects on his home following a devastating and personally punishing storm. With thunder effects the music was as compelling as his heart on sleeve stories of that event and Hurricane Katrina.

STRONG NEW ORLEANS VIBE

Considering he was playing solo there wasn’t a dull moment and even though you knew how much a band would enhance his music being able to hear him unaccompanied was a joy to behold.

From his own repertoire we heard songs like All My Rivers and Old Joe’s Turkey, Cocaine and Chicken Fricasee, which gave him the opportunity to educate us on his culinary prowess as well as his musical one. I strongly recommend delving into his recorded past with album’s like River’s On Fire, Central City and his most recent Giants.

Not only is he steeped in New Orlean’s musical history over the years his style has influenced others and it was clear, even though he modestly chose not to admit it he is as much a part of the legacy of New Orleans based music. Elements of his music show how the likes of Randy Newmann could have been influenced by him too.

His unassuming character endeared him to the Lancashire audience as he let his music speak for itself bringing a tinge of New Orleans ideally to the intimate local venue. Everyone went home with the old BBC mantra ringing… educated, informed but most of all entertained!!!

John Papa Gros: Website

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