After procrastinating repeatedly, I finally made it out (thanks to Mark & Katie) to the beautifully-renovated Levitt Shell on Sunday night for a terrific performance from Samarabalouf (pronounced sah-MAH-rah-bah-LOOF), a Gypsy swing trio from France who energized the crowd in attendance. Seeing this show made me enthusiastic about the future of the arts in Memphis. This isn’t the old Overton Park Shell — it is transformed, ultimately, into something much more grand and beautiful than I could have imagined. More info and a video after the jump.

Samarabalouf Live at Levitt Shell, Memphis from E.J. Friedman on Vimeo.

I got a little teary eyed watching the sunset, surrounded by other Memphians clapping along or dancing, parents coming with their children (who did plenty of their own dancing) and enjoying this incredible free show. For a minute, I felt like I was almost in another city. This is something so special, you owe it to yourself to take advantage of the last few shows of the 2008 Levitt Shell season. After this weekend, shows will be on hiatus until May of 2009 — so, make a picnic, bring a blanket, and come on down. You’ll be very glad you did.

Thursday, October 2 – 7pm
John Jorgenson

Friday, October 3 – 7pm
The Bo-Keys w/ William Bell*

*Makin’ Music Muscles
This artist is offering a special children’s workshop at 5 pm.
Bring your children to this free, fun, and educational musical workshop.

Saturday, October 4 – 5pm
Kenneth Jackson

Saturday, October 4 – 7:30pm
Incendio

Sunday, October 5 – 7pm
Brave Combo