Cinema Swing
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
Listen to Hot Club Of Los Angeles
An assembly of Los Angeles musicians who are well versed in country, jazz, folk, blues, pop and world music, Hot Club Of Los Angeles return with a sophomore studio album, where their fusion of Nuevo Django/jazz manouche/gypsy jazz unfolds with incredible musicianship and a whole lot of fun.
“Cinema Swing” starts the album with playful rhythm that dances around intricate picking and acrobatic keys, and “Douce Ambiance” continues the good time with a festive spirit of crisp, dynamic instrumentation.
Closer to the middle, the classic “Swing Gitan” recruits eastern influences into the sweeping melodies, while “Nuages” trims the pace back to graceful balladry with soothing vocals in French amid the dreamy atmosphere. “Valse Angeles”, one of the standout tunes, then allows the accordion to shine alongside the mesmerizing setting.
Closer to the end, “Drinking Song” takes on an almost waltz quality with its precise musicianship and Gypsy jazz sensibilities, and “Noto Swing” finishes the listen with a bouncy, punchy feel that exits the listen just as strong as it started.
An album with meticulous guitar and key work, the band do a great job of capturing an energy that almost seems like it’s live, and there’s also bits of Latin influences and post-bop ideas to be found on this varied and enticing affair.
Travels well with: Dorado Schmitt- Family; Django Reinhardt- Swing Guitar