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Gypsy Jazz & Balkan Music in Bristol

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Bristol's Gypsy Jazz Scene

Who put the gypsy in gypsy jazz?

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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Our recent gypsy jazz recommendations

Long live BASE! There’s something for everyone at this stacked PWYC party to celebrate 30 years of the radical community space. Balkan tek meets squat punk, folk-rap, steppers, dub, 160 latincore, jungle, dnb, a one-man klezmer show and much more…take your pick! Celebrate 30 years of Bristol's anarchist social centre

Sell out warning! Tireless bard Andy Irvine returns to Bristol wielding mandolas, bouzoukis, and stories of workers struggles from bygone days. He threads personal tales with historical reckonings, quietly affirming his status as an Irish legend whose prophecies reverberate through modern folk. Andy Irvine is one of the great Irish singers, his voice one of a handful of truly great ones that gets to the very soul of Ireland. He has been hailed as "a tradition in himself."

Western Gothic / fringe roots supergroup of the macabre, LA’s Heathen Apostles effortlessly alchemize the honky tonk, bluegrass and dark folk chops of their Cramps, Kings of Nuthin + Legendary Shack Shakers pedigree. Haunting, hard-edged outlaw country that’ll ride you past the sunset into the underworld FFO: 16 Horsepower, Graveyard Train, Those Poor Bastards. With Halloween drawing near what better band to see than Heathen Apostles? A band that have created a style of music that at once conjurs both angels and demons, and will enlighten a darkened soul. Enter the back room of The Bristol Fringe and be entertained like you've never been before!

Sell out warning (second show added)! Gorgeous suites for flute, cello and voice from the Japanese school of celestial folk-classical. Torso meld jazz, post-rock and hushed chamber minimalism into a towering romance FFO: Arthur Russell, JOW, Penguin Cafe Orchestra, Midori Takada, Visible Cloaks unplugged. Hailing from Tokyo’s underground DIY scene, Torso are a music duo composed of Kenji (flute, sax) and Orie (cello, voice). Join us for a rare UK performance, live at IC Visual Lab.

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What our editors say

“Described as “a breath of fresh air on the swing scene” (Twinwood Festival) Down for the Count’s 10-piece mini big band is regularly found in jazz clubs across the UK and abroad (Ronnie Scott’s London, Le Caveau de la Huchette Paris), at festivals including London Jazz Festival, and on BBC Radio. Now they are bringing the sounds and feels of the best jazz clubs to theatres around the country – with an electrifying show full of incredible energy, musicianship, and their own signature wry wit and humour.”
From: Swing That Music with the Down for the Count All-Stars

“Experience a thrilling evening of swing and jazz as a full big band pays tribute to the electrifying music of Gordon Goodwin. Featuring his signature blend of bold brass, intricate rhythms and infectious grooves, this tribute show showcases his most celebrated compositions and arrangements, brought to live with energy and precision by a powerhouse ensemble. Four-time Grammy winner and leader of the Big Phat Band, Gordon Goodwin, passed away at the end of last year, leaving behind a huge legacy. In this concert we'll pay tribute to one of the greatest modern big band arrangers of our time.”
From: Tribute to Gordon Goodwin

“Blue Harlem have been widely regarded as one of the top swing/jump-blues bands on the London scene for over 25 years. They have become regular favourites at venues such as the world famous Ronnie Scott’s, The 100 Club, The Hippodrome, Hideaway, Jitterbugs and many more. Blue Harlem is led by Al Nicholls on tenor sax and features Paul Eldridge on Piano, Sandy Burnett on Double Bass, Paul Robinson on Drums, Gethin Liddington on trumpet and Horace Cardew on Baritone Sax.”
From: Blue Harlem

“Coined 'irresistable' by Bristol 247, Sisanda is a striking & influential figure across the South West Jazz and roots scene. She's played keynote slots at Bristol Jazz festival and her band SØngo have played multiple sold out shows across the region. Now Sisanda is putting a twist on classic Jazz with her new swing band Champagne Chateau. Coming to The Architect on Bristol Harbourside this June”
From: Champagne Chateau @ Bristol Jazz Club

“Spring Swing with Bristol Little Big Band! Come along for an evening of live tunes, dancing, and great vibes with the Bristol Little Big Band! Whether you're there to swing on the dance floor or just soak up the music, it’s all about good times and great company. BYO – bring your own drinks and your favorite “scooby snacks” to keep you going through the night. Theme: Spring Swing Dress to impress in bright, bold, and outlandish attire—think colour, flair, and fun! Grab your friends and join us for a lively night you won’t want to miss!”
From: Spring Swing