Plays Stephane Grappelli

Contemporary Gypsy jazz from this Romanian-born, French-based violinist. Joined by guitar, piano, the band is top-notch (especially Peter Beets on piano). It’s crisp, bright, clean, no-frills. Technically it’s wonderful, but I would have liked a bit more passion, fun, spontaneity. It’s all a bit too formal and controlled for me.

*1. Upbeat, swinging jam, solid solos, especially the piano.
2. Mid/upbeat again, a great showcase for piano.
3. Slow, lyrical, romantic. Picks up a bit but keeps the romance.
4. Slow, dreamy intro. Downtempo but hip and sophisticated.
*5. Mid/upbeat with a sweet arrangement and a catchy feeling.
6. Sweetly lyrical midtempo w/a small nightclub feel.
*7. Upbeat romp w/a nice energy and tight work from all.
8. Relaxed, almost sleepy at first, picks up a bit. Some sweet violin.
*9. Toe tapping, good use of electric guitar, bright and bouncy.
10. Slow and nostalgic with a reflective sadness. Almost classical.
11. Slow guitar intro, then picks up. Interesting take on a classic.
12. Downtempo at first, then a quirky modern mid/upbeat swing.