The Hot Club of San Francisco Postcards From Gypsyland

The Hot Club of San Francisco

Postcards From Gypsyland

Lost Wax Records lwp0501

Paul Mehling, guitars; Evan Price, violins, viola and saw; Oliver Manchon, violin; Sam Miltich, and Josh Workman, rhythm guitars

The Hot Club of San Francisco is an ensemble of musicians who celebrate gypsy-swing inspired by Django Reinhardt on this CD. Included are innovative arrangements of classic tunes and original compositions.

The opener, "Not So Fast," is tight and lively with a swinging violin breathing life into the tune. An original composition by Mehling, "Waltz Una Nota," is heartbreakingly romantic. There is a haunting rendition of "Alle Prese Con Una Verde Milonga" and the pace quickens on "Lover's Leap," while "Rimes" has a nostalgic traditional melody. "Jonesin" is as modern as it gets. "Theme From Gypsyland" is a vocalized version of Reinhardt's "Nuages" with lyrics written by Mehling. The final cut of "Manoir de mes Reves," another Reinhardt composition, explores the moody, dark melody with precision.

This CD of thirteen tracks is filled with emotion and elegant playing. It takes a traditional approach to the genre of Gypsy Jazz and will be a pleasurable musical experience for those who enjoy this style.

by Dorothy L. Hill