The Hot Club Trio
ALISON CROOSE Westacre River Studios
ALISON CROOSE
Seeing and hearing Stephane Grapelli at King's Lynn Festival nearly 30 years ago inured a lasting affection for his special brand of happy music.
So the chance to enjoy The Hot Club Trio's tribute to the maestro was one not to be missed.
They did not disappoint. Mike Piggott captured the essence of Grapelli's playing and, with his introductions, presented a revealing musical portrait of a much-admired instrumentalist.
Grapelli's career spanned seven decades, during which his involvement with the Hot Club Quintet of France was a golden era.
His association with the gipsy guitarist Django Reinhart was a memorable partnership, and Mike Piggott teamed up with Nils Solberg to recreate those classic sounds such as Nuages, Honeysuckle Rose and Sweet Georgia Brown.
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Completing the line-up was Peter Morgan, on bass, whose use of a special bow, which looked more like a saw, displayed virtuosity and humour in his improvisations and rhythmic support.
To add to the entertainment, Piggott also played an early recording 'stro' violin complete with aluminium horn. As well as being thoroughly entertaining, the trio are keeping alive music of a certain age – but with youthful appeal.
