Ivan Neville and Dumpstaphunk is well enough established to not simply to be referred to as the next generation of the Neville Brothers and the Meters. Although, that’s a pretty heady proclamation for any fan of New Orleans music.
The band is comprised of Ivan and Ian Neville, bassists Nick Daniels and Tony Hall and drummer Raymond Weber. Ivan plays keyboards and sings and looks very much like his father, Aaron Neville, the most commercially successful of the Neville Brothers band. Ian is the son of Art “Papa Funk” Neville, the founder of the Meters, perhaps the most influential funk musicians after James Brown. Ian plays guitar.
Crystal Bay’s musical promoter Devil Dog Productions is a longtime conduit for “NOLA” to Tahoe. In recent years, Reno’s Jelly Bread has been paired with Dumpstaphunk, and for good reason. Each band member contributes vocally and the music has a funk foundation.
“For what we do, Dumpstaphunk is the epitome,” said Jelly Bread’s Dave Berry. “It’s top shelf. They do what we aspire to do. It’s so inspirational to play with them, and they’re really cool guys, too. Every time we rub elbows with them, there is nothing but respect.”
Ivan Neville has not only performed at Crystal Bay and Squaw Valley, he’s also been in Tahoe with the super jam group Dragon Smoke and as a featured artist at Snowlive. While Devil Dog is able to book the gigs, Neville has another reason to visit the area. Poker players should beware of the keyboardist known for his good hands.
Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk
Opener: Jelly Bread When: 9 p.m. Saturday, June 1
Where: Crystal Bay Casino Crown Room
Tickets: $17 in advance, $20 on the day of the show
Event Information
