Long Beach California’s Picturesque Rainbow Lagoon was the backdrop for it’s annual Crawfish Festival this past Sunday.  Hundreds of Cajun food lovers braved the humidity to indulge in a huge variety of Louisiana cuisine, including all the crawfish you can handle.  Accompanying the traditional food and drink was an assortment of music and dance to entertain throughout the day. As the sun set and air started to cool, It was RemiX who’s goal it was to keep the evening hot!

RemiX is a cover band from Southern California who specialize in delivering some of the most revered Rhythm and Blues, and Funk from the 70’s – 90’s.  They proceeded to get their set rolling with a couple of Gap Band staples “Party Train” and Humpin’. Luke Alvarez (lead vocals) got the crowd moving with his infectious energy, that was not lost on the rest of the band.  Daniel Hernandez (bass), Victor Ibarra (drums), who oversaw the bottom end and did not disappoint. Everyone from the ticket takers at the gate to the security detail was moving to their beat. Dylan Carbone (lead vocals) was next to show his mesmerizing presence.  He took charge next with his take on the Rick James classic “Give it to me Baby”. There was no stopping them now.  

On guitar was the dynamo Mark Drummond and it was hard to take your eyes off him. When not providing backing vocals he was difficult to contain.   I couldn’t tell what was moving faster; his fingers or his flowing dreadlocks! He along with Daniel A. Nelson (keyboards) both have got to be the most infectiously happy performers anywhere. You cannot deny these gents know what they are doing and have a ton of fun doing it!

Over the course of their set, they effortlessly executed “Play That Funky Music” from Wild Cherry, “This is how we do it” from Montel Jordan, “Ladies Night” from Kool and the Gang, and “Jungle Love” from The Time.  One of the many highlights was a very impressive rendition of Prince’s classic “Kiss”, vocals courtesy of Daniel Hernandez on bass. Luke Alvarez graced us with his talents on bass for a bit, seemingly just to mix it up have some fun.  Smooth, talented, effortless, was this group’s presentation and they did not disappoint.  

Ending the evening with Earth Wind and Fire’s “Lets’ groove” and “September” was a strong choice and left a lasting impression to all. RemiX surely kept the heat of the day going well into the evening and had everyone dancing back to their cars. 

On any given night, their set might change a bit, but you can be sure the energy won’t!  These guys love what they do and it shows. Do yourself a favor and check out RemiX as soon as you can.  I guarantee you will be on your feet grooving and leaving with a smile!