While Davis trades piano lessons for his freedom, Albert makes an unnerving discovery and Annie gets a gig on her birthday.

Davis' band debuts, but Annie is hesitant to perform her new song. Meanwhile, Delmond runs his fusion sound by Dr. John; Nelson makes a deal with the city; Sofia falls in with the wrong crowd; and Janette mulls moving to a less intense job. Performers include Susan Cowsill and Leroy Jones.

Jazz Fest takes center stage in New Orleans, giving Treme residents a welcome respite from a challenging year.

Antoine does a good deed, and a homeowner suspects Nelson’s deeds may not be so good. Davis fails to sign “Sugar Boy” Crawford for his opera, but Delmond gets his father to sign up for assistance from New Orleans Musicians’ Clinic. L.P. learns that his headless skeleton wasn’t always so.

Desautel's on the Avenue opens softly. Sonny pawns instruments to buy jewelry. LaDonna gets threats from a stranger and support from Albert. Sofia gets evicted for her own protection. Terry finds a case collapsing and his popularity declining. Desiree confronts Robinette.

Desautel brings in the New Year with Davis and Jacques; Davis embarks on a mission to bring music back to Rampart St. Batiste gets a taste of Hollywood South; Annie gets the message "loud and clear" from her manager Marvin Frey. Delmond is inspired to work on a new piece. Lambreaux goes for a night out and over does it. LaDonna takes Alcide and Randall to visit her momma in Baton Rouge. Bernette wants to proceed with a case against Orleans Parish Prison; Colson wants to tell all that he knows.