Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #84369 in DVD
• Released on: 2003-07-22
• Rating: NR (Not Rated)
• Aspect ratio: 1.33:1
• Formats: Color, Compilation, DVD, NTSC
• Original language: English
• Number of discs: 1
• Running time: 84 minutes

Customer Reviews

fans of Les Blank won't be disappointed
J'ai Ete Au Bal is loaded with toe-tappin performances and fascinating interviews by musicians like Clifton Chenier, Canray Fontenot, Harry Choates, Marc & Ann Savoy, and countless other brilliant Cajun and Zydeco performers. Also, some of these musicians talk about the origins of Cajun and Zydeco music, as well as the differences between the two. Unlike musicians in many other forms of music, you really believe these musicians play for the sheer love of the music (they sure aren't in it for the money, because most of them aren't making much of it). J'ai Ete Au Bal will make a fan of Cajun and Zydeco music out of anyone. Another great film from Les Blank and friends.

Treasure Without Price
I first saw this documentary in the 80's on VHS; we are so lucky it's on DVD with additional footage. I have Louisiana French in my background, many of who didn't speak English. This is a great explanation for outsiders of the music and culture of South Louisiana. It truly can be like another country; I remember in college many years ago the French exchange students used to love to drive to Louisiana to hear their French! Kudos to the Savoy's who have kept up the tradition, and so many thanks to those who have translated the traditional performers to DVD--so many have passed on now. Far from complete, but what film could be? It is a terrific introduction to the spirit and fun in this unique and beautiful State.

Les Blank does it again
This documentary on Cajun/Zydeco and its evolution is a delight. It covers what people do in Louisiana, when they're not eating. (grin)

Has the same feel Blank's "Chulas Fronteras".

His "Yum, Yum, Yum" (on Cajun cooking---which covers the rest of what Cajuns do when they aren't dancing and singing)(double grin) is one of my top favorite videos of all time, and I worked in a media library for years, so I've seen a LOT of video/film. A lot of Blank's stuff is hard to find, and often can only bought public performance (expensive). If the price seems a bit high, just know these are videos you will watch over and over.

Watching this video and "Yum" back to back----It's the next best thing to a trip to Louisiana.