Reviews & Press

The Hot Club of Philadelphia at the Raritan River Festival

By Joey Novick, TapInto Flemington/Raritan
Published May 12, 2024 at 12:53 PM

The Hot Club of Philadelphia is a highly talented and captivating musical group that brings the spirit of Django Reinhardt and the Hot Club de France to life. With their impeccable musicianship and infectious energy, they delivered a performance that is both nostalgic and exciting. The Raritan River Festival line-up was Josh Machiz, Joseph Arnold, Barry Wahrhaftig, Phyllis Chapell and Zack Devine.

From the moment the band took the stage in Pittstown at the Bethlehem Presbyterian Church as part of the Raritan River Festival, it was clear that they are masters of their craft. The guitar work is sophisticated and precise, with each member showcasing their virtuosity through lightning-fast solos and intricate chord progressions. 

One of the standout aspects of The Hot Club of Philadelphia's performance is their ability to capture the essence of Django Reinhardt's music while still infusing it with their own unique style. They pay homage to the legendary guitarist, staying true to the traditional gypsy jazz sound, but also incorporate elements from other genres, such as blues and Latin music, creating a fusion that is fresh and exciting. They also covered expertly the iconic work of composer Irving Berlin.

The chemistry between the band members is solid, and their interactions on stage create an atmosphere of camaraderie and joy. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and it is impossible not to be swept away by their passion for the music they play. Whether they are engaging in a lively hot jazz number or taking turns improvising, their musical dialogue is a delight to witness.

In addition to their technical prowess, The Hot Club of Philadelphia also knows how to entertain an audience. They have a natural stage presence and effortlessly engage with the crowd, making everyone feel like they are part of the experience. Their onstage stories and patter were a delight to behold. They have a knack for selecting songs that showcase their versatility and keep the audience engaged from start to finish, and effortlessly incorporate Gypsy jazz, classic American blues, and hot swing, and smooth vocals into their program.

The Hot Club of Philadelphia's performance was a true testament to the timeless appeal of gypsy jazz music. They honor the tradition while pushing the boundaries, creating a musical experience that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. They were an excellent choice to be part of the Raritan River Festival…

Listen to Barry Wahrhaftig’s interview with Susan Lewis for WRTI’s Arts Desk

Hot Club of Philadelphia’s version of 'Tears,' featuring guitarist Howard Alden made was #11 in WRTI Jazz Radio's 2015 top 100 countdown [based on requests]

Watch WHYY-PBS TV show about Philly's first 'Diner en Blanc,' featuring Hot Club of Philadelphia!

WRAP YOUR TROUBLES IN DREAMS –
Jazz Manouch 1909. Song d’Automne; Exactly Like You; La Gitane; Someone to Watch Over Me; Tchavolo Swing; Nuages; Nature Boy; You’d Be So Nice to Come Home To; Chez Jacquet; Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams; While We’re Young
PERSONNEL: Joe Ellis, guitar; Bob Butryn, clarinet; Jim Stager, bass; Barry Wahrhaftig, guitar; Joe Arnold, violin; John Matulis, accordion, Howard Alden, guitar; Denise King, vocals; Alex Siniavski, guitar; Mark Campiglia, violin; Phyllis Chapell, vocals; Rick Yescalis, guitar; Carlos Rubio, flamenco guitar; Bob Butryn, flute; George Manney, conga; Stan Slotter, trumpet; Dave Cianci, trombone By Herbie Y. Gamura
 
The Hot Club of Philadelphia was founded in 2001 by guitarist Barry Wahrhaftig and violinist Mark Campiglia. Joining them are acoustic bassist Jim Stager and rhythm guitarist Barry Wahrhaftig, as well as plenty of special guests, including the legendary Howard Alden on seven string guitar. This Gypsy Jazz outfit is dedicated to “playing and preserving the music of Django Reinhardt while adding their own style in the process.”
 
One is immediately struck by the easy, but deep swing that comes out of Bob Butryn’s clarinet (he’ also a swing dancer!) on the medium-tempo first track, “Song d’Automme.” One can’t help but be taken by the way these players make so much out of so little. Two Rhythm guitars and a bass keep the time and groove with some simple but well crafted changes in a minor key, as the improvisers outline them with the most essential notes, while making beautiful and singable melodies for the listener to relate too at all times.
 
Throughout the CD, new players come and go, such as Accordion player John Matulis for the track “La Gitane,” giving it a unique texture. This song is in a triple meter, as the bassist plays on one and the guitars on two and three, giving it a waltz vibe. I can easily visualize a dance floor in France with numerous couples brimming with life. Barry Wahrhaftig shows that he is no Django clone on this track. His right hand has a completely different approach. Undoubtedly one of the big highlights of this disc is “Someone to Watch Over Me,” sung by Denise King. She infuses plenty of personal experience in her rendering, as the song builds gradually. It begins as a duet, with the beautiful solo guitar work of Howard Alden, before the bass joins, and then the lead guitar of Wahrhaftig.
 
“Nuages” is another nice interpretation, featuring vocalist Phyllis Chapell. Wahrhaftig takes a particularly memorable guitar solo on this track, departing from the classic gypsy vocabulary with some very unique lines, and plenty of emotion. The listener will be happy to hear Bob Butryn return for a gorgeous clarinet solo.
 
“Nature Boy” will also be a pleasant surprise to the listener with its Latin vibe, complete with flute, conga, and Flamenco guitar from Carlos Rubio. Wahrhaftig trades solos with Rubio and it a treat to hear two different styles playing together on the same song. Denise King joins the group for the head out. And then another surprise – Electric guitar and horns! For the penultimate tune, “Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams,” the band renders it with a classic swing with arranged parts for trombone, trumpet and clarinet, and a swinging drum groove with the hi-hat on two and four behind Denise King’s vocals. We go from the Hot Club to Preservation Hall, and it is a nice departure before returning for the closer, “While We’re Young.”
 
The Hot Club of Philadelphia may be dedicated to playing the music of Django Reinhardt, but as advertised, they add their own voices and mentalities into the mix, and often infuse Latin and more traditional swing styles into the mix. All of the members have impeccable chops and unwavering musicality. If you’re in the Philadelphia area, be sure to seek them out.