The Fernando Jazz Gang, a French string quartet comprised of violin, two guitars and a string bass, plays what is essentially easy-listening Gypsy music influenced by the recordings of
Django Reinhardt. Guitarist Philippe Cuillerier's vocals are a plus as the band alternates ballads (some of which also include the accordion of Felix Briand) with some swinging performances. Quite a few of the melodies are traditional Gypsy songs but there are also numbers by
Django and even an out-of-place
Jimi Hendrix tune ("Remember"). The results are well-played and enjoyable if not particularly innovative. ~ Scott Yanow