LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL
WITH A TWIST

Julie Benko’s Mardi Gras–flavored cabaret
delights with energy and polish: a tasty Gumbo

On a Monday night at Birdland Jazz Club, with a twinkle in her eye, singer Julie Benko refers to her work the rest of the week as being involved in “a little show called Ragtime.” Being cast in this big Broadway revival is just her latest credit on the Great White Way, following roles in revivals of Les Misérables, Fiddler on the Roof, and Funny Girl (her profile-raising star turn), plus Harmony, a new (if very long-gestating) musical. This winter she also released an album called Euphonic Gumbo—also serving as the name of the band—mining the vibrant music and celebratory moods associated with the history of New Orleans and Mardi Gras parades, and the mindset to “let the good times roll.” Her current act is largely based on that radiant release, and both the recording and the live show feature a band with the creative musical direction and piano skills of Jason Yeager, who is also her husband. He beams positive energy and is a polished but accessible pro who crafts smart, pleasing arrangements that really work. She enthusiastically talks about this project, its roots, and their other recent co-creation—their baby daughter, Lulu. (The merry Mardi Gras–adjacent jamboree travels to California venues in April.)

Jason Yeager, Julie Benko

The agenda is all about taking a holiday from troubles, and that carefree tone is established from the start as the vocalist enters, strutting and strolling through the venue’s tables, smiling at patrons, dressed in Mardi Gras finery, including a headpiece and voluminous wrap. Colorful masks are donned briefly for effect, and strands of traditional bead necklaces are draped about. The genre-appropriate brass blasts from the band firmly establish the festive atmosphere. Benko’s tendency to lean into a similarly brassy, robust vocal timbre matches that energy, though it sometimes sacrifices the warmer, more nuanced tones she can bring to other material. As a result, there’s less emotional variety on display, though things soften for a love song and lullaby. Still, as a night off from heavier fare, the emphasis on fun is clearly intentional—and infectious.

The Band

Encouraging patrons to partake in cake—a special recipe native to the Big Easy—was not an easy sell, and the anticipated discovery of a hidden trinket in one serving didn’t quite land. Likewise, trivia questions were either too simple (yes, most people know Harry Connick Jr.’s connection to New Orleans) or not engaging enough to justify the time. Still, these are minor quibbles.

Benko and Yeager have explored this material in past Mardi Gras–season shows and seem delighted to have it documented on disc at last. (The album’s final track—the classic, bittersweet “Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans?”—is a live recording from an earlier Birdland outing.) The set is largely bright, bouncy, and celebratory, featuring such staples as “St. James Infirmary,” “Bourbon Street Parade,” and “Basin Street Blues.” The briskly paced presentation feels like a parade—and they don’t miss a step.

While the evening is undeniably charming, it doesn’t quite rival the deep-rooted authenticity of performers who have spent decades steeped in the style. But Benko and Yeager make no such claim. They approach the material not as natives, but as affectionate ambassadors—honoring New Orleans traditions with enthusiasm and respect.

Michael O'Brien, Jay Sawyer, Evan Arntzen, Andy Warren,
Ron Wilkins, Jason Yeager, Julie Benko, John Manzari

The band includes Mike Fahie (trombone), Andy Warren (trumpet), Linus Wyrsch (saxophone), Jay Sawyer (drums), and Michael O’Brien (bass). Benko also shows her versatility by singing in French, with the dreamy “J’ai passé devant ta porte” enhanced by guest accordionist/singer Sasha Papernik. Another highlight is a guest appearance by John Manzari, her Funny Girl co-star, whose electrifying dance work wins over the audience.

West Coast audiences can catch Julie Benko on April 10–11 at Feinstein’s at the Nikko in San Francisco, April 13 at Catalina Jazz Club in Los Angeles, April 15 at Bellosguardo Foundation in Santa Barbara, and April 17–18 at The Purple Room in Palm Springs.

Julie Benko and The Band

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photos by Kevin Alvey

Julie Benko: Euphonic Gumbo
Birdland Jazz Club, New York City
played February 16, 2026
West Coast dates April 10–18, 2026
for tickets, visit Julie Benko

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