Django Rheinhardt – The Django Rheinhardt Collection - 20 Golden Greats

Django Reinhardt – The Django Reinhardt Collection: 20 Golden Greats

The Django Reinhardt Collection: 20 Golden Greats brings together twenty of the finest recordings by one of the most influential guitarists in music history. A pioneer of Gypsy Jazz (Jazz Manouche), Django Reinhardt revolutionised jazz guitar during the 1930s and 1940s, developing a distinctive style that continues to inspire musicians across jazz, blues, rock, and beyond.

Despite sustaining severe injuries to two fingers of his fretting hand in a caravan fire, Reinhardt developed an extraordinary technique that became legendary. Alongside violinist Stéphane Grappelli and the Quintette du Hot Club de France, he helped define European jazz with dazzling improvisation, infectious swing rhythms, and lyrical melodies.

This collection showcases both Reinhardt's original compositions and his unforgettable interpretations of American jazz standards. Highlights include the timeless Nuages, widely regarded as his signature composition, alongside classics such as Djangology, Daphne, Swing Guitars, and sparkling performances of I Got Rhythm, All The Things You Are, Sophisticated Lady, and St. Louis Blues.

From upbeat swing numbers like Double Whisky, Royal Garden Blues, and Honeysuckle Rose to the romantic elegance of September Song, Stormy Weather, and Dream Of You, the album offers an excellent overview of Reinhardt's remarkable artistry. Whether performing his own compositions or reimagining beloved standards, his effortless virtuosity, melodic invention, and unmistakable guitar tone remain as captivating today as when they were first recorded.

An essential introduction for newcomers and a rewarding compilation for long-time fans, The Django Reinhardt Collection: 20 Golden Greats celebrates the enduring legacy of one of jazz's greatest innovators. A must-have for collectors of jazz, swing, and acoustic guitar music.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Double Whisky
2. Dream Of You
3. Porto Cabello
4. Duke And Dukie
5. I Saw Stars
6. Nuages
7. I Can't Give You Anything But Love
8. September Song
9. Swing Guitars
10. Stormy Weather

Side B

1. I Got Rhythm
2. All The Things You Are
3. Sophisticated Lady
4. It's Only A Paper Moon
5. Daphne
6. Djangology
7. A-Tisket A-Tasket
8. St. Louis Blues
9. Honeysuckle Rose
10. Royal Garden Blues