Jazz Gitanes is a Hampshire based Gypsy Jazz style swing band. It comprises of a variety of band members ranging from two guitars with accordion, violin, clarinet and double bass as and when circumstances permit. Their repertoire includes many of the great jazz standards from the '30s, '40s and '50s , bossa novas, and many of the compositions from the legendary jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt and violinist Stephane Grappelli.
At the core of Jazz Gitanes is a trio of musicians; fronted by gypsy swing guitarist Pete 'Tiger' Sheppard who is very well known at Le QuecumBar for his ferocious guitar playing, but at heart he’s just a soft furry pussy. Also on the front line is the suave accordionist extraordinaire Dan Teper who escaped from the Berklee School of Music USA before commencing on a career as an amateur footballer. And, backed up by an old pro well known to the business in the back room, on double bass or 2nd guitar David V Miles.
Their musical connections, and very chequered and shady histories, combine to form a unique blend of eclectic musical influences, skill and creativity, evoking imaginative musical realms, the moods of which will take you from the moving to the exhilarating. Please remember you may feel queasy from the rollercoaster ride. On the main their repertoire will comprise of many Django Reinhardt and other gypsy compositions, and jazz standards from the 1930’s and 40’s, but they may evolve into something completely different and unrecognisable. Guaranteed, it is good old family fun!
