This Friday, July 25, from 7 to 9 p.m., Alley Park in Downtown West Monroe will come alive with the sounds of Pocket Chocolate, a vibrant seven-piece funk collective hailing from New Orleans. The concert is part of the popular free Ouachita Live series, which showcases live music and fosters community engagement.
Adrienne LaFrance Wells, director of Downtown West Monroe and Ouachita Live, expressed her excitement about the upcoming performance. “Pocket Chocolate is a fantastic band rooted in the rich musical traditions of New Orleans and Louisiana,” she said. Formed in 2019, the group has gained recognition for their unique blend of funk, blues, rock, and soul. They have performed at iconic events and venues like Jazz Fest and Tipitina's, and are currently working on an LP with Jake Eckert of the New Orleans Suspects.
The concert will feature not only the dynamic sounds of Pocket Chocolate but also a festive atmosphere with food trucks, including Kona Ice, and plenty of space for attendees to relax. “We encourage everyone to bring their chairs and enjoy a wonderful evening of live music,” said Wells.
This event is free to attend, with donations encouraged to support the artists and the concert series. Wells emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, “Concerts truly make the district alive, promoting shopping, dining, and socializing in Downtown West Monroe.”
The Ouachita Live series runs from March through October, with a diverse lineup planned for the coming months. August will feature local country band No Good Horses, coinciding with the City of West Monroe's Gar Rodeo.
Wells invites everyone to join in the fun: “If you’ve heard about us but haven’t attended yet, come out this Friday! It’s a great time to socialize and enjoy live music.”
Rain or Shine: In case of inclement weather, the concert will be relocated to the patio of Flying Heart Brewery. Last month, a lightning storm interrupted the performance of Chubby Carrier, but the team is committed to providing a great experience regardless of the weather.
For more details about this event and others, visit KEDM.org.
