NOLA String Kings

The NOLA String Kings are John Rankin, Don Vappie, and Matt Rhody: three string musicians playing originals and New Orelans jazz mixed with Latin, Creole, and Americana influences.  

The trio started performing and developing their sound at the Columns Hotel on Tuesday evenings and in concerts.  

There is a long history of string bands in New Orleans, especially in the early years when strings were predominant in music culture, and the violin was still the king of melodic instruments. In the 1960s, Doc Souchon and the legendary 6 and 7/8 String Band was recorded, and their recordings have been an inspiration for many musicians. The NOLA String Kings are dedicated to the idea of collective improvisation in New Orleans jazz, with multiple simultaneous melodic lines.

For a sneak peek, visit their website at johnrankin.net