Jeff Naideau

During the 1970s, pianist Jeff Naideau gave up Connecticut's cold climate for the warmth of California, along the way trading in his classical training for a stint in a rock group. The decision led to work with Wang Chung, Quiet Riot, Robbie Kreiger, and Eric Burden. He found a second home in Louisiana when, during a trip to the Crescent City to take in the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, he sat in during a French Quarter gig at Patout's. The establishment's owner so enjoyed the music Naideau made on the piano that he booked Naideau for the rest of his time in New Orleans. Drawn by the city's musical heritage and culture, the pianist relocated once again and drew inspiration from such Big Easy artists as Dr. John, James Booker, and Professor Longhair. It didn't take long for the rest of New Orleans to warm to Naideau. The House of Seafood and Chef Andrew Jaeger booked him into the French Quarter, snagging him before he'd been there more than a few days. While at The House of Seafood, Naideau shared the stage with numerous New Orleans musicians, including drummer Freddy Staehle. Staehle also contributed his skills to Naideau's second album, Heaven on a Half Shell, from Altered Records. ~ Linda Seida