Gypsy Jazz Thrills At Novotel

Ghanaian jazz fans were at the weekend treated to a number of refreshing gypsy jazz tunes by the renowned French music brothers, Boulou and Elios Ferre, at the Novotel Hotel in Accra.

As the crowds munched on food and beer, the two experienced guitarists constantly changed roles thereby increasing the intensity of rhythms emanating from the stage.

Indeed, stimulating gypsy tunes momentarily transported the crowd to a ?land? of multifaceted beats, sounds and rhythms, which no doubt powerfully revealed the experience of the Ferre brothers, who have been at the forefront of gypsy jazz for several years.

The duo avoided standard gypsy combos and ?boom chick? rhythms playing instead gypsy jazz, which comes from the other side of the fence. Undeniably, they managed to tickle the ears of members of the audience.

Sons of the acclaimed Manouche gypsy guitarist, Pierre Matelot Ferre, Boulou and Elios have managed to bring gypsy swing into the modern era.

Over the years, they have swayed diverse audiences with the power and inventiveness of their playing.
Indeed, Boulou rarely plays fast.

His technique is so far beyond flashy showmanship indeed, speed never enters the equation. Instead we are treated to a unique and thoughtful blend of discord and harmony.

Elios, like his brother, studied guitar with his father, but initially chose a different direction, becoming an accomplished flamenco player.

He got involved in jazz at the age of 15, at the behest of his older brother. He can still be heard, on occasion, playing fine flamenco guitar, but normally supplies the chord work and bass lines.

Despite the variety of musical influences, the Ferre Brothers? music could never be called eclectic. The rich musical traditions of the Manouche people have always been evident at the heart of their playing.

The concert was organized and presented by the Alliance Francaise and the French Embassy in collaboration with Novotel Hotel.