“An exceptionally fine album” by Jazz Journal UK

 “The first live album by this remarkable group contains performances recorded in the UK in 2012, towards the end of a lengthy international tour. As the group’s name and instrumentation suggests, it’s style basically applies a broad-based traditional New Orleans Creole approach to Reinhardt’s gypsy swing. But the talented New Orleans clarinettist Evan Christopher (whose mentor, surprisingly, was Tony Scott) is at pains to point out, in his earnest sleeve notes, that many other seasonings are added to this multicultural musical gumbo. The “Spanish Tinge” advocated by Jelly Roll Morton is honoured specifically in detailed arrangements of Mamanita and The Crave. Both tunes are recreated afresh with sensitivity and skilled attention to Morton’s rhythmic dynamics capturing the strong emotional groundswell which permeates the expressive melodies. Although the quartet is clearly inspired by the classic jazz of such masters as Morton, Ellington and Reinhardt, it’s commendably ambitious integration of other influences indicates a forward looking interest in reinterpretation and meaningful development. Diverse rhythms incorporate at times the style of a Cuban bolero, a Brazilian samba, a tango, a bossa nova, or a blues shuffle, whilst straightahead driving 4/4 is no problem. Tonal texture is constantly varied, prominence is swapped around in practised interplay. Christopher’s piquant Creole style is vibrantly expressive, notably so in imaginative interpretations of Dear Old Southland and The Mooche. His colleagues are similarly impressive, contributing colourful solos and close rapport in ensemble. Blenkhorn’s guitar in Manoir De Mes Reves is quite outstanding. An exceptionally fine album, thoughtfully planned with unusual care, and very skilfully performed.”
By Hugh RAINEY – JAZZ JOURNAL UK