Amid the ruins of an American city, ordinary people--musicians, chefs, residents--find themselves clinging to a unique culture and wondering if the city that gave birth to that culture still has a future.

Do you know what it means -- Meet de boys on the battlefront -- Right place, wrong time -- At the foot of Canal Street -- Shame, shame, shame -- Shallow water, oh mama -- Smoke my peace pipe -- All on a Mardi Gras Day -- Wish someone would care -- I'll fly away.