The Zydecats

   The Zydecats play hot zydeco and Cajun dance music from Louisiana. Their infectious dance rhythms, romantic ballads and waltzes, and tight ensemble presentations are guaranteed to excite audiences of all ages. When playing zydeco, Craig Edwards' driving, blues-based button accordion style is complemented by a pulsating rhythm section featuring Marc Bernier laying it down on the frottoir (rubboard). Tom Randall's blues, jazz and rock influenced guitar solos, Dirck Westervelt's growling, inventive bass lines, and Michael LaBella's heart-pounding drums keep people dancing. All five members sing, creating a kaleidoscope of lead voices, as well as lush supporting vocals. When playing the more down-home Cajun style, Bernier anchors the group on acoustic guitar, while Randall switches to violin, allowing for the distinctive fiddle and accordion interplay that is the soul of Cajun music.

  Zydecats augment their zydeco repertoire with original compositions, in addition to crafting arrangements that breathe new life into songs from Louisiana groups. With their interpretations of familiar and forgotten gems from the blues and R&B traditions of the 1950s and ¹60s, as well as some tasty Texas swing stylings, Zydecats bring a unique and dynamic approach to the zydeco scene.

  For more than a decade, Connecticut-based Zydecats have shared billings with all of the major Louisiana-based touring acts at festivals, concerts and dance venues throughout the Northeast. Zydecats are the ³house band² for the dance tent at the annual Labor Day weekend Rhythm & Roots festival in Ninigret, R.I., New England's premier showcase for zydeco and Cajun music. Delighting both seasoned fans and audiences new to Cajun and zydeco music, Zydecats perform at dances, nightclubs, private and corporate parties, weddings, town concerts, and other private and public occasions.

  Add some Louisiana hot sauce to your good times. Experience the Zydecats!