Swingbooty: Reviving Gypsy Jazz with a Modern Twist

In the '70s Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) brought classical music to the foreground of the Woodstock generation releasing songs like "Roll Over Beethoven" and blending orchestral elements with rock. Today, Swingbooty, a seven-piece gypsy swing band, is taking a page from the ELO playbook. In their home base of East Tennessee, Swingbooty brings jazz manouche to a scene more familiar with rock and pop—and their shows are a visual feast of dance, live art, and poi or fire spinning. As one person put it: "It's not just a night of hot jazz, it's an experience." Along with other bands such as Kukuly and The Fuego and Tennessee Sheiks, Knoxville has created a massive scene for hot jazz. Swingbooty, a seven-piece gypsy swing band has emerged as a vibrant force in the modern revival of jazz manouche. Founded in 2010 by violinist Christian Lange and co-founder Ryan Flaherty, the band pays homage to the golden era of gypsy jazz while infusing the genre with their own unique style. With a dynamic blend of traditional influences, modern innovation, and a commitment to community, Swingbooty enjoys an extremely eclectic but loyal fan base.

A Journey Rooted in Tradition

At the heart of Swingbooty's music lies a deep respect for the legacy of Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli, pioneers of the gypsy jazz genre. Lange, who began playing violin at age 13, cites Grappelli as a major influence on his technique and style. Known for his smooth phrasing and emotive melodies, Grappelli's impact on Lange's playing is unmistakable. "Stéphane has a breathtaking blend of elegance, passion, and spontaneity," Lange explains. "His phrases often feel meticulously composed yet entirely free-spirited." The band's sound captures the essence of la pompe—the driving rhythm guitar style that defines jazz manouche—while incorporating improvisational solos and melodic ornamentation. Their repertoire includes classics from the 1920s to the 1940s, seamlessly blending these with modern influences from western swing, bossa nova, and even pop and rock. Guitarists Adam Friedman and Les Cunningham complement Lange's violin with intricate harmonies and inventive solos, while pianist Mike Benjamin's syncopated improvisations add a distinctive flavor to the band's sound. Bassist Tom Smith and drummer Sean Mantione round out the rhythm section, creating a tight and energetic foundation.

From a Passion Project to a Regional Phenomenon

Swingbooty's origins trace back to a private outdoor festival along the French Broad River, where Lange and Flaherty first connected over their shared love for gypsy jazz. Inspired by the spirited rhythms of Django Reinhardt's "Minor Swing," the two musicians envisioned a band that would honor the genre's timeless appeal while pushing its boundaries. Their early performances in Knoxville clubs quickly gained a following, introducing local audiences to the lively sounds of gypsy jazz and building a loyal community of fans. The band's debut album, Hot Damn Them Peanuts, released in 2012, showcased their ability to blend traditional gypsy jazz with fresh energy. A follow-up album, More Hot Peanuts (2016), expanded their sound and featured vocalist Kady Robbins. In recent years, Swingbooty has shifted focus to video releases, producing visually engaging concept videos of classics like "Exactly Like You" and "Sunny Side of the Street." These projects have resonated with audiences worldwide, earning the band an international fanbase spanning Argentina, Chile, Japan, and Europe.

A Multi-Sensory Experience

Swingbooty's performances are more than concerts; they are artistic spectacles. The band often collaborates with dancers, flow performers, and visual artists to create immersive, multi-sensory experiences. At events like the biannual Jazz at Ijams outdoor festival, audiences enjoy not only music but also live painting, poi spinning, and swing dancing. Jessica Gregory, a live artist who frequently works with the band, describes these shows as "a vibe—an all-inclusive, feel-good experience that brings people together through music and art." This emphasis on collaboration extends to the band's approach to performance. Each member of Swingbooty brings a unique perspective, and their synergy is evident in every note. Mantione's drumming is simultaneously steady and dynamic delivering a driving pulse. Smith's bass playing combines a rock-solid groove with a melodic sensibility, often weaving in counterpoint to create dynamic lines. Lange's violin solos are gutsy, have a vocal-like quality and emotional depth. Cunningham and Friedman's guitar interplay showcases both technical mastery and creative spontaneity. Vocalists such as Meredith Cabe and Jeanine Fuller who rotate with each performance, add yet another layer of diversity to the band's sound, ensuring that no two shows are ever the same.

A Catalyst for Community

Beyond their music, Swingbooty has played a crucial role in fostering a sense of community in East Tennessee. Their shows often feel like gatherings of friends rather than formal concerts, where audiences are encouraged to dance, picnic, and interact. "We're not just a band and an audience," Lange says. "We're a shared current of energy." Swingbooty's influence extends to other musicians as well, inspiring a new wave of interest in gypsy jazz. By collaborating with local artists and supporting venues that prioritize live music, the band has enriched the region's cultural landscape and introduced many to the joys of this timeless genre.

Looking Ahead

As Swingbooty evolves, they remain dedicated to preserving the spirit of Gypsy Jazz while exploring new creative avenues. The band plans to work on new material and concept videos in the coming year, with Lange expressing a desire to explore new creative ideas on film. "People miss the days of MTV," Lange notes. "Every time we release a video, the response is incredible, both locally and fans on the other side of the world." Swingbooty's journey is a testament to the enduring appeal of gypsy jazz and its ability to connect people across generations and cultures. Through their innovative performances, community engagement, and commitment to their craft, Swingbooty has cemented their place as both torchbearers of tradition and pioneers of modern gypsy swing. For fans and newcomers alike, Swingbooty offers an unforgettable musical experience that celebrates the joy, energy, and inclusivity of this vibrant genre.

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