Akron Zydeco Band Mo' Mojo Stirs Up the Northside

I had never heard the term "Zydeco" prior to hearing Mo' Mojo. If this is the only definition I get of it, however, I'll still be happy. The Akron band made it's monthly appearance at the Northside Pub this past Saturday, and I was lucky enough to walk into its fantastic and intoxicating energy.

Mo' Mojo isn't your typical band a 24-year-old would go to see-I would say I was likely one of the youngest in the crowd. That being said, however, people flocked to dance in front of the stage. I certainly couldn't blame them. The band fills the room with electricity, using strong influence to pull together something that doesn't just flow through your ears, but through your veins.

What is Zydeco? According to the vast knowledge of the internet (and specifically, the infamous Wikipedia), it is folk music with heavy Louisianan, Creole influence. According to my better half (also in attendance), it sounded just like many of the bands he heard walking down the streets of New Orleans. To me, it sounded like a folksy-ragtime-funky jam band. Regardless, it was phenomenal and I've never heard anything like it.

The band includes an accordion, a fiddle, a rub-board (washboard?), guitars, drums, bass, saxophone, and even a triangle. A different person here and there would walk onto the stage-with bongos or a harmonica. It seemed no instrument was ever off tempo, however, and they converged harmoniously to bring fantastic melody and rhythm. They also played the absolute coolest rendition of Prince's "Kiss" I've ever heard in my life.

As for The Northside, this business was just as pleasing as the band playing in it. Albeit there was a $5 cover charge to get into the bar, it was worth every penny. The beer selection was fabulous. I had the Thirsty Dog Twisted Kilt, a Scottish ale with excellent flavor-and an Akron brewery! There was a lot of space in the bar and venue area, and we found a table with ease (though once the band started playing those tables grew scarce). Food was also fantastic, as we ordered fried pickles and fried green beans. Both appetizers only ran us $3 each, as well.

So the verdict? Go see Mo' Mojo! Specifically, go see Mo' Mojo at Akron's own Northside Pub. From a lover of the Akron music scene and one with great appreciation for real artists, I can't suggest anything else. Just do it.

Want a sample? Check out their Myspace page: here.