New from Django's Cadillac, New Wheels

We've already reviewed self-titled Django's Cadillac's first CD (see Gypsy-Choro) a brilliantly executed ensemble effort. When we heard our Pacific Northwest string jazz brethren (and sister-ern, Kat) had recorded their second album we had very high hopes. After multiple spins, we're proud to say the tightly-knit group does not disappoint!

From the opening track, Rick Hulett's infectious and heart-pounding original "Formosa Please" to the final sultry, stirring rendition of the timeless Ballad "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" the crew takes us on an entire expedition of sweet harmony and captivating rhythm. These folks have been together a while, and it shows in their polished execution and acutely intuitive reciprocation. Years of being a team, simpatico in their tastes, you experience in every note how much they enjoy playing with each other. Throw in compelling guest appearances with percussionist Joe Craven, and you've more than you bargained for!

Bluesy and soulful seductive in the Ellington "Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me," professionally precise in the Kerry Williams instrumental "Delphinus," the band demonstrates the wide range of dynamic potential for the acoustic jazz environment. Bold and unafraid to tackle the complex, they offer an amazingly tight rendition of the Dave Brubek ground-breaking "Blue Rondo ala Turk;" unveiling the group's sleek musical sophistication, only to be diverted later by a light, toe-tapping, virtually self-effacing, audience-endearing tune, "Peel Me a Grape."

If that isn't enough variety, how about a Klezmer tune, "Forget the Tears,"and a south of the border (you name the border...) "Gata Salvaje." Clarinet has never complemented strings so well. Every part seamlessly fits, and through this musical melange, we still enjoy a textural consistency never betrayed by this indefatigable musical diversity.

We couldn't go without a mention of some of the finest instruments being made, the Paul Lestock "Arrow" Selmer-style guitar of Hulett, and of course one of our favorites, Williams' Jazzbo mandolin. (Read more about our own Jazzbo). In true "chicken-or-egg first" philosophical cogitation, we contemplate whether or not it's Lestock's instruments that make this music come alive, or if it's the music that make the wood and strings of the Oregonian master luthier breathe delightful musical delicacy.

A trip to the Django's Cadillac website is worth the visit; check out the QuickTime festival video of the band and see for yourself why this group has so much potential.

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Selections:
Formosa Please
Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me
Blue Rondo ala Turk
Lullaby of the Leaves
Delphinus
Bel Mir Bist Du Schoen
Peel Me a Grape
Forget the Tears
When Sunny Gets Blue
Gata Salvaje
Somewhere Over the Rainbow