The terms "cover band" and "dance band" can mean different things to different people. OR! They may be interchangeable in your mind. Here's one point of vue.
Cover Bands (and by the way, we're talking in terms of "New Orleans Cover Bands") tend to do record copy and work off of a predetermined list. Most of the musicians in these type of groups tend to be weekend warriors who play music as a sideline and because it's fun. There's nothing wrong with all of that. They can do a great job and might be the right thing for your party.
(again, think "New Orleans Dance Bands"), tend to play some (or alot) of cover tunes but also offer their own arrangements of certain songs particularly when it comes to standards or jazz tunes. The musicians in these groups tend to be educated in the field, professional in the work habits and attitude toward your event, and capable of "reading the crowd". Perhaps a very important point when it comes to your New Orleans Wedding Band Music.
If you'd like to hear more about the differences, give us a call!