In recent years, jazz music has continued to evolve and absorb the influences of diverse musical cultures, but echoes of the golden era can still be heard. The spirit of Django Reinhardt can be detected in the music of French gypsy guitarist Birelli Lagrène, while violinist Regina Carter is restoring the violin to a position of prominence rarely seen since the days of Stephane Grappelli.

This swinging track, from the Quintet of the Hot Club of France's first recording session for Ultraphone, sets some fine, virtuoso playing by Reinhardt and Grappelli against the solid rhythmic accompaniment of Louis Vola (bass), and Roger Chapman and Joseph Reinhardt (guitars). Grappelli had recently purchased the music for the song, as it was a hit in the US at the time and the band were concerned that their repertoire might not be commercial enough to sell records. However they had not had a chance to play the piece - besides a brief run-through in the taxi on the way to the studio - so, incredibly, what you hear on this record is more or less their first attempt! This perhaps accounts for the light, fresh ensemble sound and the carefree feel of Reinhardt's and Grappelli's inventive improvizations.

Links

http://www.jerryjazzmusician.com/linernotes/django_reinhardt.html
Django Reinhardt's biographer discusses the Quintet's performances and recording sessions.

http://redhotjazz.com
This site provides an invaluable resource on early jazz, with extensive biographies, essays and downloadable tracks.

http://www.rootsandrhythm.com/
International US-based mail order record catalogue, specializing in roots music.

http://www.jazznblues.co.uk/
UK-based jazz and blues record specialists.