| Jazz manouche |
A magnificent celebration of Django Reinhardt’s enduring legacy and the living spirit of Gypsy jazz
Few jazz musicians have left a mark as profound as Django Reinhardt. More than seventy years after his passing, his music continues to inspire generations of guitarists across the world. Conceived by double bassist William Brunard, artistic director of the Django Celebration series and long-time bassist for Biréli Lagrène, this third volume continues one of the most rewarding projects dedicated to Gypsy jazz today. The concept is simple: bring together two exceptional guitarists from different generations or musical backgrounds, unite them with one of the finest rhythm players in the genre, William Brunard, and allow the music to speak for itself.
Following the remarkable pairings of Stochelo Rosenberg and Rocky Gresset on the first volume, then Tchavolo Schmitt and Fanou Torracinta on the second, this third Django Celebration edition assembles two genuine masters of the instrument: Angelo Debarre and Adrien Moignard. And the result is simply magnificent.
Bringing together Angelo Debarre and Adrien Moignard is an inspired idea. Although both are deeply rooted in Django’s tradition, each possesses a distinctive musical personality. Angelo Debarre has been one of the defining voices of Gypsy jazz since the 1980s, and his extraordinary right-hand technique, fiery articulation and unmistakable rhythmic drive have influenced countless guitarists. Adrien Moignard represents another generation but shares the same profound musical values. His playing combines impeccable technique with refined harmonic sophistication, elegant phrasing and an extraordinary gift for accompaniment.
At the heart of the Django Celebration project stands William Brunard. Far more than simply accompanying the two guitarists, his double bass provides both the rhythmic heartbeat and the harmonic foundation of every of the 7 tracks. And as artistic director, Brunard also deserves enormous credit for creating a series that celebrates Django’s legacy without becoming nostalgic.
One of the album’s greatest strengths lies in its repertoire. Django’s legendary “Danse Nuptiale” is preceded by a composition from Angelo Debarre, “Compartiment Swing”, which paves the way for an album where the swing of the gypsy guitars will have you tapping your feet. Other original compositions like “Oyana” (signed Angelo Debarre) and the fantastic “Will Blues” (signed William Brunard) demonstrate that Gypsy jazz remains a fertile ground for new musical ideas rather than simply revisiting familiar repertoire.
The trio’s rendition of “Autumn Leaves” (J. Kosma, J. Prévert, J. Mercier) is remarkable and sublime. Their adaptation of this iconic French song lends it a unique dimension, a power charged with immense emotion. Without a doubt, it is the centrepiece of the album.
And what makes Django Celebration #03 truly exceptional is that virtuosity is never an end in itself. The three musicians constantly prioritise expression over exhibition. That sense of musical maturity gives the album remarkable emotional depth.
With each new volume, the Django Celebration series becomes more than a collection of excellent recordings. Together, these albums remind us that Django Reinhardt’s greatest gift was not merely a repertoire of immortal compositions, it was a musical philosophy built upon freedom, listening, generosity and joy.
Elegant, joyful, endlessly swinging and performed with GREAT musicians, Django Celebration #03 celebrates the Gypsy music as a living tradition. I think that’s exactly the spirit William Brunard’s Django Celebration project embodies.
Frankie Pfeiffer
Editor in chief – PARIS-MOVE
PARIS-MOVE, July 28th, 2026
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Musicians:
Angelo Debarre – guitare
Adrien Moignard – guitare
William Brunard – contrebasse