Manouche (Vinyle LP) / Giacomo Smith

Description

Manouche by Giacomo Smith is a heartfelt tribute to Django Reinhardt’s legacy and the vibrant tradition of gypsy jazz. Alongside the exceptional Dutch Sinti guitarist Mozes Rosenberg, Smith imbues this beloved genre with a fresh yet masterful approach. The album captures Reinhardt's timeless spirit while offering a new perspective on these classic sounds. Smith, an accomplished clarinetist, discovered gypsy jazz during his university years, listening to the brilliance of clarinetist Hubert Rostaing alongside Reinhardt. This revelation sparked a lasting passion for the musical style within him. Today, with Manouche, he collaborates with Rosenberg—one of the most remarkable acoustic guitarists of his generation—to explore the very essence of the genre. Rosenberg's playing is both profound and technically dazzling, blending traditional Dutch Sinti guitar techniques with modern phrasing. His rhythmic pulse and lyricism add another dimension to the album, which also features Remi Oswald on rhythm guitar and William Brunard on double bass. Together, they produce a dynamic and engaging sound, true to Reinhardt's spirit without falling into imitation. The tracklist combines beloved standards with vibrant original compositions, blending fiery virtuosity with delicate lyricism. From the infectious swing of "Tiger Rag" to the elegant phrasing of "Embraceable You," Manouche is an album that invites listeners to dive into the rich and rhythmic world of Django's jazz.