Dr. John, Zap Mama, more to play LEAF Fest

The 37th Annual LEAF Festival, which takes place in Black Mountain October 17 through 20, announced its lineup today. Grammy winning New Orleans musical stalwart Dr. John and his band the Nite Trippers, Afrobeat artist Zap Mama (pictured), acclaimed African musician Vieux Farka Toure (son of Ali Farka Toure), and NC's own Acoustic Syndicate will headline.

As usual the lineup is a diverse blend of international styles from homegrown roots music to an eclectic acts from afar. Soul Rebels Brass Band, John Cowan Band, Grupo Fantasma, James Hunter Six, Beausoliel avec Michael Doucet, King Britt, Rising Appalachia, 101 Runners, Lake Street Drive, The Bluegrass Project, Dirty Bourbon River Show, Robin & Linda Williams, Samite of Uganda, Underhill Rose, and the Moon and You are among the other musical acts.

Giant Robot and Rodney Miller's Rhythm Raptors, Contra callers Sarah VanNorstrand & Maggie Jo Saylor, and a late night DJ set with DJ Jor-D will lead the Contra dancing portion of the festival. Orquestra Gardel will provide a Salsa soundtrack for dancing as well.

Other performers include LEAF International Bequia Steel Pan Youth, Metropolitan Klezmer, Unifire Theatre, Hobey Ford's Golden Rod Puppets, and the Whee Ah Faerie Kin troupe. The family-oriented festival also includes several children's activities and education opportunities. For more information and tickets click here.