By Max Stewart

Seeing surviving members of The Meters (George Porter Jr., Leo Nocentelli, and Zigaboo Modeliste) reunite at the historic Saenger Theatre was no doubt a once-in-a-generation New Orleans music moment. The setlist itself was a masterclass in groove, with classics like “Cissy Strut,” “People Say,” and “Fire on the Bayou” sending waves of energy through the packed theater as Porter’s endlessly deep basslines, Nocentelli’s signature funky guitar work, and Zigaboo’s impossibly unique drumming reminded everyone why the band helped invent the sound of modern funk music. Cyril Neville even came out for a few tunes, including the classic “No More Okey Doke.” Ivan Neville kept the reigns secured on keys in honor of his late uncle, Art Neville. Even before the show started, the New Orleans Mayor declared 5/2 “The Meters Day” in New Orleans, proving the weight their music has on the city.

There were rumors swirling of who might sit in as the original bill promised “Very Special Guests”. When Oteil Burbridge came out for “Hey Pocky A-Way” with dueling bass alongside Porter, it was already unreal. Then with the added guitar of Warren Haynes for “Just Kissed My Baby”, it could not get better. But somehow, after performing the National Anthem at the Kentucky Derby, Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi also joined for the final tune, “It Ain’t No Use” with everyone on stage. It was a magic musical moment and maybe one the best we have ever seen given the weight of the Meters’ sound and the special guests.