Music: Best Bets

If you like your Cajun music with a little rock ’n’ roll flair, the Swamp Pop Music Festival has a lineup of musicians who have brought the oft-misunderstood genre into the limelight. The two-day festival at the Lamar Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales features music from David St. Romain, Ronnie Melancon, Charles Mann, Warren Storm, TK Huelin and more. Besides the music, there’s also the fiercely competitive jambalaya cook-off, an outdoor expo, classic car show and more. Plus, it all goes to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. July 20-21. $10 on Friday, $15 on Saturday. Go to swamppopmusicfest.com for more.

At the Manship Theatre: The twice-Grammy-nominated bluegrass and country band The Grascals will perform at the Manship Theatre July 17. The band has toured with Dolly Parton, Charlie Daniels, Hank Williams Jr. and others. Go to manshiptheatre.org for more information.

At the Varsity: Independent Day featuring Youngbleed, G-Spade, Flodeis and DJ Tony Skrachere is set for July 3. Red, Rock and Blue benefiting the Louisiana military, featuring The Atomic Punks with 5150, Motley Inc, and Poison Overdose will be July 7. The Chee Weez performs July 13.

At the Spanish Moon: The dark, gritty Americana of the band Murder by Death will fill the venue July 26.

In New Orleans: Don’t miss the stellar lineup for Essence Music Festival July 6-8 at the Superdome. And start preparing now for the Satchmo SummerFest at the Old U.S. Mint in the French Quarter Aug. 2-5.

In Lafayette: Fans of American Idol and the Louisiana-native contestant Joshua Ledet (who made it to the Top 3) can see the Top 10 perform during the American Idol Live! Tour at the Cajundome July 30.