Django Reinhardt was an amazing Gypsy Jazz guitar player from the middle of the last century. He has inspired millions of musicians round the world with his technique and delivery of very fast and melodious Jazz playing. This is even more impressive as he only had the use of two fingers for the most successful part of his career, as his hand was burnt in a fire in his caravan.
He relearnt to play to accommodate his deformed hand and wonderful music was the result of an altered technique. He really was truly remarkable. He tragically died in his early 40s from what is believed to be an aneurysm in 1953.
I discovered ( and promptly bought ) these original recordings last week, unfortunately Hank has blackmailed me into believing they are now his. We shall see, as the afternoon is still young.
Now tape your pinky and adjacent finger to your hand and try to play with just two fingers. Believe it or not there are clubs of people who in fact do this for real to replicate Django's style. I have a good mind to join their club and beat them over the head with it.
Kevin Nitrovane
My record collection has increased somewhat thanks to Manheim second hand record store in Germany.
Django Reinhardt was an amazing Gypsy Jazz guitar player from the middle of the last century. He has inspired millions of musicians round the world with his technique and delivery of very fast and melodious Jazz playing. This is even more impressive as he only had the use of two fingers for the most successful part of his career, as his hand was burnt in a fire in his caravan.
A Camera shot from my guitar teching position side stage in Paris, Bercy Stadium . Seems that this Yusuf guy has a few friends that have come to see him play. Ive started to count them but iv'e run out of numbers. Yusuf certainly hasnt. I think he played about 35 hits that night ( and counting)
After much testing and fine tuning, Yusuf's guitars equiped with the new Trance pickup system are nearly ready. Its been a very rewarding experience. I simply cannot put down the guitars during testing. Its the most realistic amplification system on the market. Compliments go to Yoriyos for advice and drive, Gary and Laurel at Trance Audio and Andrew Lacey ( sound engineer) at Kosmic sound for use of their equipment and tech advice. Will be going into the famous Hank Marvin's studio, with Hank and the equally Infamous Les Williams to do a final check later this week..
Installing the new Amulet Trance pickup systems in Yusuf ( Cat Stevens) guitars after the European tour. And why not ? We tested them at Kosmic sound a few days ago and the results were amazing. 