Nestled in a corner of Berlin lies a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Every Wednesday night, the old brick basement of Zosch transforms into a portal to the soul-stirring world of New Orleans-style jazz. What appears as a weathered dive bar from the outside, with its peeling paint and graffiti-adorned walls, becomes a sanctuary for music lovers as they descend the narrow staircase into a dimly lit space brimming with the melodic sounds of jazz.

The air is filled with anticipation and excitement as a diverse crowd gathers on wooden benches, eagerly awaiting the performance of La Foote Creole, a group of seasoned musicians led by the charismatic Reimer Loesch. These musicians, all in their 70s and 80s, come together to transport their audience to the heart of the jazz scene in the Big Easy.

Loesch’s love affair with jazz began in his hometown of Frankfurt, but it was a transformative trip to New Orleans in 1965 that set his musical journey on a new trajectory. The vibrant jazz culture of the city inspired him, as he learned from the unsung heroes of the genre – the impoverished Black New Orleanians who infused their music with raw emotion and soul.

Enthralled by the emotional depth and improvisational spirit of New Orleans jazz, Loesch was captivated by its authenticity, a quality he found lacking in the performances of white jazz musicians. Upon returning to Germany, he made it his mission to preserve and promote the legacy of New Orleans jazz, ensuring that its unique sound would reverberate even thousands of miles away from its birthplace.

Passing on his knowledge to a new generation of musicians, including the younger members of La Foote Creole, Loesch is dedicated to keeping the spirit of New Orleans jazz alive. For him, it’s not just about the music; it’s about sharing something extraordinary, introducing others to a genre steeped in emotion and history.

Through his unwavering commitment, Loesch aims to show that New Orleans jazz is more than just music – it’s a testament to the resilience and creativity of a community that poured its heart and soul into every note. As the mesmerising melodies fill the basement of Zosch every Wednesday night, it’s evident that the spirit of New Orleans jazz has found a new home in the heart of Berlin.