Search - Raphael Fays :: Sans Domicile Fixe

Stunning gypsy-jazz guitar

01/06/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album is actually titled "Sans Domicile Fixe". Minor Swing is just the first tune on the recording. Raphael Fays has made a number of albums, and this is the best. It is pure gypsy-jazz, with just another guitarist and a bassist accompanying him. Most of the selections are familiar titles to aficianados, but there are a few original gems (especially the waltz composed by his dad). Most amazing are his version of the Manouche classic "La Gitana", and the second take he does of the anthem "Dark Eyes" (aka: Les Yeux Noir). During one stretch of the latter, he plays 3 1/2 choruses straight at incredible speed with no break in the string of eighth notes....has to be heard to be believed. After hearing both Jimmy and Stochelo Rosenberg, Romane, Moreno, and others, I believe that Raphael Fays is as dazzling as they all are. The recording quality, unlike many of the gypsy-jazz recordings from Europe, is fabulous! This CD is a 'must have' for all Django enthusiasts."