Django Reinhardt, the manouche-gipsy (born in Belgium), was one of the most influential guitarists ever. He was one of those who shaped the European jazz. Just as Bill Monroe was the creator of the bluegrass, Django Reinhardt was the creator of the so called “gipsy swing”. He not only was a splendid guitarist, but also had a great band with a swinging violin and a driving lead guitar.
Some contemporary musicians, who keep the gipsy swing alive, are successfully bringing this style a step further.  A nice example of the Django-adepts is guitarist James Cohen from Ottawa Canada.

Twenty five years ago James was a rock guitarist, who performed on stage together with rock giants, like Mick Ronson.
In 1996 his orientation turned toward Flamenco. In 1999 we could hear James playing with Ottmar Liebert in the band “Del Norte” in the compilation CD “Puro Flamenco”.
James’ pursuit for contemporary flamenco can also be noticed in other recordings like “La Tormenta”, “Heart of Velcro” and “High Side of Lowdown”.
And again we hear the influence from Django Reihardt, Paco de Lucia, Tomatito and from Miguel de la Bastide, on his newest recording “Ho Phi”.
Some tracks on “Ho Phi” give that pure flamenco feeling, while others are more gipsy jazz.

James Cohen is an outstanding guitar player, and together with a great band he brings beautiful music. The vivid musical arrangements and the flamenco/gipsy jazz background together almost create a blues fusion. His guitar play emits high intensity and shows a great feel for lyricism, balance and musical structure. These qualities result in a prominent new CD “Ho Phi”. Although there is a high amount of energy in his arrangements, the CD still gives the feeling being very relaxed.

In short: James Cohen takes elements from flamenco, swing jazz and blues, and brings them together in a convincing original and timeless manner.

“Ho Phi” is gewoon een verslavend album!
Translates into
“Ho Phi” is absolutely a contagious album!