Album Notes

Babik (pronounced Bah-`beek) is a quartet of incredible musicians who play a special brand of jazz known as gypsy swing. The style was created in the 1930’s by the legendary 2-fingered guitarist, Django Reinhardt, and the band’s love for Django’s music inspired them to choose the name Babik, which was the name of Django’s son. Gypsy swing blends American big band swing with the exotic sounds of European gypsy folk songs. Babik approaches this style with a modern sensibility, virtuoso technique, and a good sense of humor. Their passionate improvisations and toe-tapping rhythms reward both listener and dancer alike.

In late 2006, the band released its debut CD, “Pronounced Bah-beek”, along with a concert DVD “Live at Sessions”. Both became immediate #1 best-sellers in the Buffalo area following the bands’ memorable performance at the sold-out release concert at The Tralf Music Hall. The band is currently at work on their second CD which will feature many original compositions, with influences that range from flamenco to Klezmer to Middle Eastern folk music, in addition to gypsy swing.

Babik has recently collaborated with the renowned conductor and composer Brent Havens to orchestrate the music of Django Reinhardt. In 2008, Babik will perform this music with The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra in what will be the North American premiere of Django Reinhardt’s music in a symphonic concert. The band looks forward to performing this music with other orchestras, both large and small, across the country. Babik is also a frequent collaborator with the nationally acclaimed dance company, Configuration Dance, performing concerts that are a dazzling mix of music and movement.

In addition to appearances at festivals, concert halls, and clubs, Babik is also deeply committed to performing educational programs in elementary schools, high schools, and universities. The band has a wonderful time conducting assemblies and workshops that reach out and really get students involved in the joys of music-making, improvisation, and the history of jazz as it relates to world events. More can be learned about Babik’s educational programs by clicking on the “Set List” tab.

Whether you are young, old, or somewhere in between, Babik’s easy-going humor, warmth, and exceptional talent, will likely win you over. Perhaps Buffalo Spree Magazine best expressed the spirit of the band in a recent feature story: “It’s hard not to fall in love with a band whose every tune seems to state ‘We love life and we want to celebrate it.’”