Performer: Kelly Thibodeaux and the Etouffee Band
Genre: “Swamp Rock”
Date: May 28, 2011
Venue: The Trout Lake Country Inn
In 6 words or fewer: Cajun Fiddlin’ in Northwest Forest
Video link: Etouffee at Trout Lake Country Inn.
Performance Review: Kelly Thibideaux only had one partner with him last night, but the two of them had enough energy to fill the room and get people moving.
Some sounds transport a person: Steel drums fly you a caribbean island; steel guitar buses you to Nashville, and cajun fiddle floats you to Nawlins (New Orleans). "Swamp Rock" as Etouffee bills itself, aptly describes their sound, but they also throw in some blues. No need for percussion instruments the way these guys attack their fiddle, harmonica, acoustic guitar and electric guitar. Throbbing music raised the pulse rate of the audience, even without dancing, which many enjoyed.
Venue Review: The town of Trout Lake, Washington is about 25 miles north of Hood River, Oregon, adjacent to a national forest and in the shadow of snow-covered Mt. Adams. The Country Inn is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. You walk into the old bar, where they serve up beer & wine. The main room is about the size of an elementary school gym, with a stage on the far end. The floors, walls and ceiling are all wood. The few tables and chairs get taken by those who arrive early to eat dinner. With all the saws, posters and other memorabilia on the walls, the place looks like it's been in use for 100+ years, which it has.
I happen to have a place within walking distance, so I love the venue. It’s a great place to relax around good people.
(This venue is not good if you are in a wheelchair.)
