Skronky Tonk

Tired of touring and in need of a change, guitarist Charlie Baty left his band (Little Charlie and the Nightcats) and formed a new group “to explore gypsy jazz, Brazilian music and organ trio jazz.” His new combo features Lorenzo Farrell on Hammond organ and J. Hansen on drums (both with Baty’s ex-sidekick Rick Estrin’s Nightcats). On Skronky Tonk, the vibe is upbeat and ranges from the bop-influenced “How High the Moon” and Charlie Christian’s “Swing to Bop” to Baty’s own “Cobalt Blues” and “Gerontology,” a high-velocity staple of his Nightcats gigs. Farrell, who’s no slouch throughout, really rips it here! Baty also pays homage to the French gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt with a delicate version of his “Nuages” and on “Django,” the Modern Jazz Quartet’s lyrical tribute to him. The eclectic selections include two cheery Brazilian tunes and a peppy version of Erroll Garner’s “Misty.” A great new direction for this protean musician. Can’t wait for the next CD!