Occidental Gypsy has an original approach to Gypsy Jazz that pays homage to Django Reinhardt and expands the genre to include elements of western (Occidental) sounds, including blues, Klezmer and Latin. The acoustic quintet features prodigy Eli Bishop on violin, who performs regularly at Jazz at Lincoln Center. Bishop enthralls audiences as the current Guinness Book of World Records fastest clapper, and is also featured in their new song “Messalina, Lover Lamb.” The compositions in the band’s latest CD 44070 include musical journeys both complex and danceable. Most notable among them are “Vrba” and “Children’s March,” both of which are human rights-themed instrumental pieces considered masterful reinterpretations of Hot Club Jazz by fans. Occidental Gypsy’s lyrical songs like “Gypsy Blues” and classic tunes like “Over the Rainbow” have a catchy vibe and fresh approach. Musician David Bromberg says of Occidental Gypsy, “these guys have great singing, fantastic guitar and violin work, and high energy originals that leave the crowd crazy. An awesome band.”

Occidental Gypsy has played over 200 concerts in 30 states including; Djangofest in Seattle, Mill Valley California and Las Vegas; Rhythm & Roots Festival; Falcon Ridge Folk Festival; The Green Mill in Chicago; The Old Town School in Chicago; Nighttown in Cleveland; The Triple Door in Seattle; World Café Live in Philadelphia and Wilmington; The Ark in Ann Arbor; and The Jazz Kitchen in Indianapolis and many more. The band’s performances have so much energy, they’ve often been heralded as 'rock stars with acoustic guitars.' Their vibrant playing, original approach and expert musicianship is also now gaining them new attention overseas.

LINEUP:

Brett Feldman: lead guitar

Eli Bishop: violin, strings

Jeremy Frantz: lead vocals & rhythm guitar

Jeff Feldman: bass

Jon Chapman: percussion