Immerse yourself in the vibrant Parisian swing scene of the 1920s, 30s, and 40s with Django Reinhardt's captivating album, "Americans in Paris." This collection, released on February 1, 2005, under the Naxos label, is a testament to Reinhardt's mastery of swing music, jazz, and French jazz, with a touch of ragtime and big band influences. Spanning just under an hour, the album features 22 tracks, including classics like "I Got Rhythm," "How High the Moon," and "Stompin' at the Savoy," alongside lesser-known gems like "Manoir de mes reves" and "Djangology."
Django Reinhardt, a Belgian-born guitarist and composer, is renowned for his unique Manouche, or gypsy jazz, rhythm guitar and picking style. His collaboration with violinist Stéphane Grappelli in the 1930s gave birth to the Quintette du Hot Club de France, which popularized this distinctive genre. "Americans in Paris" showcases Reinhardt's virtuosic guitar work and his ability to blend American jazz with French chanson, creating a sound that is uniquely his own.
The album opens with "I'm Coming Virginia," a lively tune that sets the stage for the swing and jazz numbers to follow. Tracks like "Farewell Blues" and "Blue Light Blues" highlight Reinhardt's prowess on the guitar, while "Body and Soul" and "My Melancholy Baby" offer a more introspective look at his musical range. The album also includes several instrumental pieces, such as "Low Cotton" and "Solid Old Man," that showcase Reinhardt's compositional skills.
"Americans in Paris" is not just a collection of songs but a journey through the Parisian jazz scene that captivated audiences worldwide. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and engaging exploration of Django Reinhardt's musical legacy.
Vinylscout