Gypsy jazz or gypsy swing originated in the Romani cultures of France (according to Wikipedia) and has huge popularity in Bristol. But while many fans in Bristol might partake in alternative living’ via vans, canal boats or semi-legitimate housing, are they uprooting gysy jazz from its roots? Romani is a culture and an ethnicity, not just a way of life - Bristol council reports that 95% of the traveller community actually live in permanent housing now. So it seems the nomadic, traveller, roots of this music that now enjoys huge popularity in Bristol, might be eroded from the inside too.
The gypsy jazz thing has really kicked off in Bristol. From live bands to Bristol DJs, people seem to be into it. For big multi-band gigs it's worth looking at whats on at the Lost Horizon and the Attic. Occasional gypsy and klezmer nights also happen at The Croft so it's also worth considering the gig listings for the Croft.
There's a quality core of gypsy influenced bands in Bristol including the chaotic Fromage En Feu, Fuzia and festival-folk favourites Sheelanegig. Balkan beats nights in Bristol are typically found in the second or third rooms of some of Bristols bigger clubnights.
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What our editors say
“Bristol based Mista Trick began to mix live elements into his remixes, introducing musicians, rappers, and vintage swing vocalists Elle & The Pocket Belles. This soon developed into Mista Trick Collective, the on-stage performance of this renowned Swing & Bass DJ's finest tracks, with a full live band. This musical fusion is in a league of its own, taking Swing & Bass to the next level. Mixing vintage, vaudeville vibes with distinctly down and dirty Drum & Bass, the resulting sound is like the lovechild of a wartime knees-up in an underground rave!”
From: Mista Trick Collective + Mr Fitz + Support
“The Relay Rips- Hyperactive live show with big guitars and powerful brass section performing original upbeat material,perfect for the drinking dancefloor. New-wave, folk rock, punk-swing & brass fuelled Rock n' roll.”
From: The Relay Rips, Boat trip to
“Elly Hopkins & Stuart Oliver met jamming on the vibrant Bristol jazz scene. Having spent time studying swing music in New Orleans and Paris respectively, they each share a love of early jazz standards from the 30s and 40s. Taking inspiration from artists like Ella Fitzgerald and Django Reinhardt, a set from Hopkins & Oliver is full of toe-tapping rhythm, mischief and heart, with all the radiance and intimacy of a fireside session.”
From: Hopkins & Or
“She’s back! Expect exhilarating swing from award winning jazz vocalist and long time Radio 2 & Jazz FM broadcaster Clare Teal and her marvellous band who return with a fabulous new show as ever celebrating the hits and hidden gems of the Great American and British Songbooks, plus contemporary covers and originals. The concert will also include favourites from her acclaimed DVD The Fireside Sessions.”
From: Clare Teal
“The Ultimate Robbie Williams tribute act. My show includes all of Robbie's greatest hits, both old and new, a touch of swing and some Take That all delivered with the voice, look and incredible charisma of one of the UK's favourite entertainers. An absolute must-see show!”
From: Robbie Williams Tribute at Zion Bristol