Maniere Des Bohemiens
Album: La Pompe
Label: Farmyard
Tracks: 12
Website: https://www.facebook.com/ManieredesBohemiens

I first came across this bunch of young jazz musicians at last year's ill-fated Galtres Festival where they played a rousing late-night set in one of the tents.

Their infectious rhythms and superb musicianship got my vote and I had no hesitation in securing their services for my festival (BAMfest in Bedale, North Yorkshire at the end of May). Such is the power of their live performances.

Now they have released a CD which only goes to highlight my first suspicions - these boys from Nottingham can really swing.

Their fiery brand of gypsy jazz takes us all around the world - the samba beat of Brazil, the pavement cafes of Paris, and sultry Spain - and all along the superb playing shines though.

The exquisite violin of Rob Rosa is one of the more obvious instruments to shine brightly but other bands members chip in with breathless saxophone, rhythmic guitars and general bonhomie with this album of instrumentals.

Maniere des Bohemiens comprise: Rob Rosa - Violin, Roger Rosa - Guitar, Nick Perez - Guitar, Peter Beardsworth - Sax, Mark Lewandowski / Mark Houlgate - Upright Bass.

There are some familiar standards here - Honeysuckle Rose, Limehouse Blues, Lullaby of Birdland, All of Me and I got Rhythm - but I particularly enjoyed the opening track, Latcho Drom, which allows all the band to show off their chops.

But I have to say every track is a pure joy. It is a tour de force. I defy anyone not to tap their feet and have a wide smile while listening to this. Excellent

John Knighton