The Swing Sessions, Vol. 2

The Swing Sessions, Vol. 2 is the second in a series of Django Reinhardt reissues originally recorded for the Swing label in the mid-to late-'30s. The joy of these sets resides in finding the master guitarist in a number of unusual settings, sometimes as a lead player, other times as an accompanist. The session begins with five pieces recorded with Bill Coleman and His Orchestra, including fun versions of "I Ain't Got Nobody" and "Swing Guitars." The most intimate pieces, "Somebody Loves Me" and "I Can't Believe that You're in Love with Me," feature violinist Eddie South and bassist Paul Cordonnier. South is the star here and his bow renders lovely lead lines as Reinhardt offers sensitive accompaniment. The oddest and most interesting pieces on the album are the two loose interpretations of Bach's "D Minor Concerto." Both feature Stéphane Grappelli and South as the lead players, while Reinhardt chugs away at his guitar in the background. This swinging classical blend apparently failed to create a new genre, but it is nonetheless an interesting early melding of styles. The set is filled out with a number of Hot Club pieces, including an augmented line-up for two versions each of "Bolero" and "Mabel." At over 70 minutes, The Swing Sessions, Vol. 2 is a generous collection that will be greeted warmly by Reinhardt devotees. ~ Ronnie D. Lankford Jr., Rovi