Daywalkers

Biography

The DayWalkers are an alternative roots band formed in New Orleans in 2014, specializing in a progressive blend of Country, Cajun, Zydeco, and Louisiana music. The band spontaneously came together during an impromptu gig featuring core members Alex MacDonald (washboard, vocals), Janson Lohmeyer (keyboards, vocals), and others including Wil Darvill or Marshall Baker (violin/fiddle, vocals) and drummers like Travis Marc or Trey Landry (drums, vocals). Their dynamic vocal harmonies, musical interplay, wacky humor, and high-energy performances quickly established them as a staple on Bourbon Street, particularly at venues like Krazy Korner and Fat Catz in the French Quarter.[1][3][4]

Alex MacDonald, a native New Orleanian, brings washboard expertise and a bold style inherited from his parents, legendary musicians Leigh 'Little Queenie' Harris and Bruce 'Weasel' MacDonald, infusing the band's sound with deep Cajun, Zydeco, and roots influences. Janson Lohmeyer contributes smooth southern vocals and piano mastery, drawing from his musical family background and prior collaborations. The group released their debut album 'Americana Mix' in 2016, followed by 'The Fundamental Daywalkers' in 2018 and 'Down To The Quarter' in 2022, showcasing original tracks like 'Stuffed Bell Pepper' and 'Down To The Quarter' alongside covers, all performed with fresh energy and crowd appeal.[1][3][4][6]

Thriving in New Orleans' vibrant music scene, The DayWalkers have built a loyal following through steady gigs at iconic spots, French Quarter Festival appearances, and their irresistible mix of diversity and fun, embodying the city's laissez les bons temps rouler spirit without widespread national breakthrough yet.[1][3][4][5]

Fun Facts

• The band formed spontaneously from an impromptu 2014 gig in New Orleans, leading to immediate steady work on Bourbon Street.[1][3]
• Alex MacDonald is the son of New Orleans music legends Leigh 'Little Queenie' Harris and Bruce 'Weasel' MacDonald, carrying forward a rich family legacy in Cajun and Zydeco.[3]
• Their debut CD 'Americana Mix' (2016) started as a humble project but highlighted their powerful harmonies and charm, with tracks like 'Stuffed Bell Pepper' featuring traded vocals.[3][4][6]
• Regularly spotted at Krazy Korner (640 Bourbon Street), they've become a 'home base' act drawing crowds with wacky humor amid the French Quarter chaos.[3][4]

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Leigh 'Little Queenie' Harris - Mother of Alex MacDonald, legendary musician providing familial musical heritage (Cajun/Zydeco performances) [Alex's upbringing]
• Bruce 'Weasel' MacDonald - Father of Alex MacDonald, legendary musician influencing roots style (Cajun/Zydeco performances) [Alex's upbringing]

Key Collaborators

• Janson Lohmeyer - Core band member (keyboards, vocals), handles bookings (All albums including Americana Mix (2016), Down To The Quarter (2022)) [2014-present]
• Alex MacDonald - Core band member (washboard, vocals) (All albums and performances) [2014-present]
• Marshall Baker - Fiddle/violin, vocals in early lineup (Americana Mix (2016)) [2014-2016]
• Trey Landry - Drums in lineup (Live performances) [2016]
• Waylon Thibodeaux - Prior collaboration for Janson Lohmeyer (Unspecified projects) [Pre-2014]

External Links

• Spotify
• MusicBrainz