After listening to the Rosenberg Trio’s version of ‘Choti’, I found myself wanting to hear more valses. On the advice of some folks over at DjangoBooks forums, I got hold of a copy of Matelo Ferret’s ‘Tziganskaia And Other Rare Recordings‘. The collection contains 2 versions of ‘Choti’ and others are tunes that are a treat. The recordings are well done, and you can almost imagine being on a chair beside the player. It’s warm and personable. The playing is a demonstration of pure gypsy power and passion. The versions of ‘Choti’ differ from the Rosenberg’s version, and are full of raw flashing technique. The term ‘shredding’ comes to mind, but that would not describe the feeling that Matelo puts into his playing. His playing is just awe inspiring.
Also, on my playlist is the Olivarez Trio’s ‘Adieu, Bienville’. Guitarist Rick Olivarez leads the trio on a similar trip of visiting older gypsy jazz tunes, including ‘Choti’. The tunes run the gamut from older valses to Django’s ’50s tune ‘Double Whiskey (Double Scotch)’, and original composition. His playing ranks him among the top players, in my opinion. The bass and rhythm are first rate, and provide the force behind his solos, executed with typical power and grace. ‘Double Scotch’ and ‘Choti’ are getting quite a workout on my player.
Both of these sets are highly recommended.
