Review: CABARET FRINGE 2017: HOT CLUB DE ADELAIDE - LES GITANS BLANCS at Mitcham Cultural Village Hall

Reviewed by Fiona Talbot-Leigh, Friday the 23rd June 2017

Les Gitans Blancs (The White Gypsy's) are a welcome addition to the Cabaret Fringe Festival this year with their show Hot Club de Adelaide. This four piece gypsy jazz band are a tour de force and have been playing and performing together for years. They are Robert Zunic lead guitar, Tomislav Kovacev rhythm guitar, Ben Parkin double bass, and Julian Ferraretto on the violin. Their repertoire is diverse and is a combination of classical, pop, rock, ethnic folk, and jazz.

The Mitcham Hall was warm and inviting set up in cabaret style, complete with cloth laden tables, candle light, and the opportunity to purchase refreshments. Formally dressed in suits and bow ties, the band began their first number subtly before upping the tempo and taking us on a musical journey around the world from the Middle East through to Spain and Russia. These incredibly talented men entertained a most appreciative audience for a little over two hours.

During the evening there were recognisable songs played, such as Minor Swing, composed by Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli, featured on the soundtrack of the movie, Chocolat, as well as Caravan, composed by Juan Tizol and Duke Ellington, but we were also treated to some original music as well. The skill of each of these musicians is extraordinary and together, their musicianship could rival that of the best. It was a privilege to be in the same room as these gifted men as I was totally immersed in the delights of their wonderful sound.

Each tune was delivered with incredible precision and mastery, sometimes with haunting undertones which kept things different and interesting. Throughout the show, many an audience members' head was bobbing and toes tapping for the duration of the numbers, as their rapt attention never faltered.

Les Gitan Blancs are masters of their art and, although extremely talented, they don't take themselves too seriously so the atmosphere during the evening was very relaxed and carefree and each member's sense of humour just added to their charm. In between songs, Zunic would share with us a little of where the songs came from and why they were chosen for the program, and this was where their humour would often shine through.

All in all it was a wonderful evening of varied and lively music. This band is unique to Adelaide and if you ever get the chance, go and see them. Their season in this year's Cabaret Fringe was just about a sell-out and, after seeing them for myself, I can see why. Further details can be found here.

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