LeRoy’s Swing is a stylish collection of Djangocentric music played with a Texas twist. Biller’s backing band is modeled after Django’s wartime Nouveau Quintette, with clarinet (played here by Ben Saffer) replacing the early violin. Rhythm comes from guitarists Anthony Locke and Jeff Seaver, supported by bassist Ryan Gould.
Biller plays Django with cool sophistication and laidback charm. His song list is classic Hot Club, from Gusti Malha’s “La Valse des Niglos” to Al Jolson’s “Anniversary Song” to Django’s little-played “12th Year.” But the freshest numbers are Biller’s own, and he swings with sure grace.
This article originally appeared in VG‘s June ’05 issue. All copyrights are by the author and Vintage Guitar magazine. Unauthorized replication or use is strictly prohibited.
