By Abbe Sparks…
The Consummate Musician Continues to Push the Boundaries to New Heights
There is much more to Jazz Guitarist Stéphane Wrembel than meets the eye. He may be best known for his original compositions in the acclaimed Woody Allen films’ (Midnight In Paris and Vicki Cristina Barcelona) and for his prolific dedication to the art of legendary guitarist and composer Django Reinhardt, but the artist continues to pleasantly surprise us — pushing the boundaries of his craft and his self to new heights.
Last week, Stéphane made his LIVE Vocalist Debut in New York City at Dizzy’s Club at Jazz at Lincoln Center, where he celebrated the pre-release of his newest album,“Django New Orleans II – Hors-Série” and he did not disappoint! In fact, it was so enthusiastically and warmly received by the crowd that he even surprised himself; tenderly belting out two of his beloved Serge Gainsbourg compositions, embracing their shared Parisian accent and vocal range. He was joined by songstress Sarah King, whose expressive style and versatility brought an engaging charm to the performance.
Rounding out the entire evening is his 9-piece NYC-based specialty group — Josh Kaye (guitar), David Langlois (washboard/percussion), Nick Driscoll (clarinet/soprano sax), Joe Boga (trumpet), Steven Duffy (tuba/sousaphone), Adrien Chevalier (violin), Scott Kettner (drums), and Sarah King (vocals) — that pays homage to legendary Django Reinhardt, blending the rich traditions of New Orleans brass with the fiery spirit of Reinhardt’s “Jazz Manouche” — reimagining timeless classics with a thrilling new energy.
I have seen this artist perform countless times over the years in various configurations and each show offers a unique experience of the masterful artist and his intense appreciation for the Django method. Whether I see an acoustic show, a three-piece blend, Django A GoGo or the larger 9-piece group, one thing is crystal clear – Stéphane Wrembel’s passion and intensity is undeniable.
What separates this performance from all others I have seen to date is the joy, charm and passion that blatantly radiates off of Stéphane and the members of his 9-piece Django New Orleans specialty group — positively infecting the audience, where at times, they seemed to join in the glow.
The 8-run sold-out performances demonstrates just how beloved by audiences Stéphane Wrembel and the Django method are. The group performed tracks from their newest album,and a few fresh renditions of classic songs, blending the timeless Django Reinhardt string sound with the infectious, joyful groove of New Orleans.
“Django New Orleans II – Hors-Série” is the follow-up to his 2023 album “Django New Orleans”, which will be released on all streaming platforms Friday, November 14th. The 10-track recording includes timeless classics, new original compositions and marks Wrembel’s recording debut on vocals.
Stéphane Wrembel is one of the most highly regarded guitarists in the world specializing in the style of Reinhardt. He has had a remarkable career having toured the U.S, France, UK, India, Nigeria, and more. He has released more than 20 albums under his name, the nom de plume, The Django Experiment, and collaborations with David Grisman and pianist Jean-Michel Pilc.
Since 2003, Wrembel has produced the Django á Gogo Music Festival, bringing together some of the finest musicians in the world to celebrate the Sinti style of guitar to perform in prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall, Symphony Space and The Town Hall. The Django A GoGo 2026 Music Festival and Guitar Camp will take place May 12-17, 2026 at The Woodland in NJ and Symphony Space in NYC.
For more information and tour dates visit www.stephanewrembel.com/
