Didier Lockwood: Tribute To St

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

Recent articles (1,677 total)

Published: September 1, 2000

Inimitable. Stéphane Grappelli was one of a kind. Rather than attempt to imitate him, Didier Lockwood pays tribute in his own way. A love of melody and a keen sense of swing remain as common denominators. Lockwood, however, adds high harmonics, spiritual whistles, unique improvisation and modern harmonic sounds to the performance. The changes are subtle, but they update the music appropriately. Lockwood provides two original compositions along with the program of songs associated with Stéphane Grappelli. Lockwood’s "The Kid" swings with a modern Latin clave flavor, while his "Barbizon Blues" provides a scene for fiery improvisation. Bassist Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen and guitarist Biréli Lagrène fill roles as if they were members of the Quintet of the Hot Club Of France. The bassist solos liberally throughout the album, while Lagrène accepts a lesser, supportive role. His feature on Django Reinhardt’s "Minor Swing" dances romantically. Consisting of several slow ballads and mostly up-tempo romps, the session pays homage to a legend respectfully and intelligently.

Track Listing: Les Valseuses; I Got Rhythm; Nuages; Barbizon Blues; All the Things You Are; My One and Only Love; The Kid; Someday My Prince Will Come; Minor Swing; Misty; Pent-Up House; Tears; In a Sentimental Mood; Beautiful Love.

Personnel: Didier Lockwood- violin; Bir

Record Label: Dreyfus Records
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream