Django Reinhardt - The Electric Years (CD 2007)

Mention Django Reindhart, and most people will think of his music from the 1930s 'swing' era, playing with Stephane Grappelli. This album comprehensively charts his work after WW11, playing amplified guitar, moving from gypsy jazz into the era of be-bop and the big band. This is a much forgotten area of Django's work: had he lived longer he would certainly have been hailed as a true pioneer in this field. As it is that accolade now belongs to Charlie Christian (and deservedly so). The album contains re-workings of some famous tunes, and a wealth of other material, including some of Django's own compositions. A must for anyone wanting to understand the man and his work. Two CDs and over two and a half hours of music! Brilliant.