Yvonnick Prene specializes in the chromatic harmonica and makes it swing with the gypsy-styled band Padam swing on this mix of originals and jazz standards. Homages the Django Reinhardt are felt on the joyful takes of “Coquette” and bohemian “La Valse d’Amy” which includes some caravanesque guitar chords by Michael Valeanu and bowed joy by violinist Scott Tixier. The mixture of textures of Tixier, Prene and Mike King’s piano on Sting’s “Shape of My Heart” leaves a thoughtful and deep impression, while the idea of taking Charles Mingus’ “Duke Ellington’s Sound Of Love” was an adventure of genius. Prene’s got a warm sound to his harp, geting cozy on “Desafinado” and bluesy on Horace Silver’s “Strollin’.” Lots to enjoy here.
www.yvonnickprene.com