"An enjoyable swing set that grows in interest with each listen.”

- Scott Yanow, The Syncopated Times

“One can’t help but wonder what this prodigiously gifted musician will do next!?”

- Raul Da Gama, jazzdagama.com

Jazz Beyond Borders is celebrating the two year anniversary of “Jazz at the Mezz” at Café Mezzanotte in Severna Park, Maryland. The organization has featured internationally prominent world music and jazz artists in the monthly concert series.

The November 21 concert features one of the region's most widely respected touring bands. Led by guitarist Michael Joseph Harris, Hot Club of Baltimore brings the best in Gypsy jazz and swing to audiences in North America and Europe.

Inspired by the legendary Django Reinhardt, Harris recently released two more in a growing list of traditional and contemporary Gypsy jazz albums. His efforts have yielded rave reviews internationally and numerous invitations to perform in the U,S. and abroad.

A prolific composer, the Baltimore bandleader stretches the boundaries of the genre, encompassing elements of folk, world, and jazz in his music. His sound appeals to listeners who enjoy fast picking, solid melodies, irresistible rhythms and exciting solos.

With Hot Club of Baltimore and the eclectic Ultrafaux ensemble, Harris has appeared in concert halls, clubs and festivals such as Festival Django Reinhardt in France, Preston Jazz and Improvisation Festival in England, Djangoary Soiree Festival in Virginia, Django by the Sea in Maine, Midwest Gypsy Swing Festival, and Charm City Django Jazz Festival. (He is artistic director and founder of the latter event.)

Culture vultures will have a feast hearing familiar and lesser known tunes in this colorful program tracing the roots of Gypsy jazz. In addition to Django Reinhardt compositions and other historical pieces, they’ll hear contemporary originals by Harris and a special surprise - they’ll perform “Sir Duke!” The tune was written by Stevie Wonder in honor of Duke Ellington, one of many great musicians to collaborate with Django Reinhardt in his storied career.

Café Mezzanotte is located at 760 Ritchie Highway (Route 2), Severna Park, MD 21147. There are two shows at 50% capacity. Tables will be spaced for social distancing for the health and comfort of guests. Parking is free and convenient.

* This concert is dedicated to former arts intern Nina Dicey, who freely shared her unforgettable zest for life.