Austin Pitre

by Craig HarrisOne of the most flamboyant performers during the early era of Cajun music, Austin Pitre is remembered for his exciting showmanship. Claiming to be the first Cajun accordionist to play standing up, Pitre stirred his audiences with visual gimmickry including playing his accordion behind his back and over his head. Together with his band, the Evangeline Playboys, Pitre recorded such now-classic Cajun tunes as "Les Flammes D'enfer" and the "Opelousas Waltz." In 1971, Pitre recorded 18 tracks under the direction of Chris Strachwitz of Arhoolie. Using portable equipment, the tunes were recorded in Pitre's garage and released as Opelousas Waltz in 1997.