A singular, unique and original exploration of one of America’s greatest and most beloved and visited cities.

This incredible photographic survey punctuated by intimate and lively texts, created by a highly regarded photographer who has a unique eye even when exploring the “normal” is expected to enchant anyone who encounters it. Its subjects run the gamut from music, to historic locations, to important residents, to food, to architecture.

But the book is not just a photographic survey: Thom Gilbert makes contact with the luminaries in the environment and interviews them in their unique environments. The greatness of this book hangs on the “somebodies” who have made the town the world-class environment that it is today. Just some of the “names” here interviewed and photographed include James Carville, Emeril, Jon Batiste, John Berendt—international luminaries who have made the ethos of New Orleans boundless on a national level. New Orleans is known for it’s round-the-clock nightlife, vibrant live-music scene and spicy, singular cuisine reflecting its history as a melting pot of French, African and American cultures. This book embodies all of these and its festive spirit that begins with Mardi Gras and ends with a great meal, documented in a singular way by a world class portraitist of cultures writ large.

Like every book and photographic work created by Thom Gilbert, this is a first book of its kind: a fine art documentary that offers rare, all-access insight into a uniquely American culture on the rise. Ideal for local residents of New Orleans, visitors and armchair tourists, and collectors of unique fine art photography, Somebodies is a visually stunning and essential addition to any bookshelf.