Customer Reviews

Django: Jazz Tribute [VHS]

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Django Reinhardt's melodic and harmonic ideas, solo style and general technique have been recycled, absorbed and spread by generations of jazz and blues guitarists. This tribute to Europe's first jazz master is a blistering set of duets performed by groundbreaking Gypsy guitarist Bireli Lagrene and Django's son, Babik. Includes Django's composition "Nuages."

#1347 (26 min, Hi-Fi Stereo)

I was a bit dissapointed by the short length of the video, and though I was expecting more homage to be payed towards Django, this was a worthy purchase. Bireli and Babik play only one Django song "Nuages", along with some Bireli originals. If you are a musician or a fan of gypsy swing, you should see this to understand a newer interpretation of this genre.

All the superlatives on the package are dead-on accurate, not hyperbole. No interviews, no introductions, NO TALK at all, and no annoying audience reaction shots, none, just GREAT MUSIC. Absolutely amazing guitar playing by Bireli and impressive accompaniment and leads by Babik. Several cameras were used to shoot this video, and there are many fine shots of the players' hands at work, as well as giving us Babik's and Bireli's smiles and nods to one another, portraying their rapport. Even though at times I would have liked the camera to stay longer in tight close-ups of Bireli's left hand, I recognize the editor's desire to provide some variety in the camera work. I highly recommend this video to anyone who loves hot guitar playing, whether they love jazz or not. I just wish it was at least twice as long as its 26 minutes with more than one composition by Django.

I was very disappointed with this video. I was expecting some straightforward gypsy swing playing. Buyer beware.