This 2018 album is the third in a series of Gypsy Jazz releases by acoustic guitarist Strat Andriotis, and here is he accompanied by legendary violinist Jerry Goodman, who I will always associate with Mahavishnu Orchestra although he has been in the likes of Dixie Dregs and recorded numerous albums. Pianists Gonzalo Rubalcaba and Adrean Farrugia often find themselves plating support to the other two, as they lead the music through numerous twists and turns. Goodman often contributes nearly as much to a piece by not playing as when he does, as Andriotis often defers to the violinist, rarely taking the lead when the other is also playing. Yet when he is given the opportunity Andriotis really can move.

The biggest single issue with the album is that the songs themselves are too short, as is the album, with eight numbers in less than 35 minutes, and I would have much preferred if the musicians had allowed themselves to extend further. The result is something which is incredibly enjoyable, so much so that the listener wishes it were longer. Anyone who plays this style of music is always going to find themselves compared to Quintette du Hot Club de France, and while no-one is ever going to say this is more impressive than Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli, this is an album which fans of the originals should be seeking out.

Rating: 7/10

Links:
https://stratmusic.net/