Drummer, composer and multi-instrumentalist Russell Batiste Jr. had been scheduled to lead his band, Russell Batiste & Friends, at 3 p.m. on Sunday at the recent NOLA Funk Fest. Sadly, only his powerful musical spirit emanated from the stage as an array of musicians paid tribute to their late friend, collaborator and mentor. Batiste, born David Russell Batiste Jr., passed away on September 30, 2023, at...