Jazz Moustache, for the Love of D’Jango, In the style of the Hot Club of France

Our Origin Story: Jazz Moustache was formed when I (Refael Keren, Accordion) called a couple of fellow Gypsy Jazz musicians, Tak Arikushi (Guitar) and Rachel Melas (Bass) to come over for some home recording. Tak brought a very basic digital recorder and we just played some of our favourite Django tunes in my kitchen. No extra takes, no solo tracks. In the close-knit Toronto gypsy jazz scene we’d all played together in various bands and jams but there was definitely some magic when the music was boiled down to it’s barest elements – a minimalist trio. You can hear Rachel’s soulful solos and Tak’s virtuosic guitar leads on the recordings. Someone found a fake a moustache and we came up with the concept and name. Jazz Moustache balances traditional Gypsy Jazz with an individual approach that can’t hide behind a big band. We played a few local bars in the early years and slowed down everyone got busy with other projects, jobs and family. But like long distance friends who instantly bond together in short spats, we reunite once or twice a year sometimes as a trio sometimes with a special guests.A rare treat when i get this band together for a show it is well worth the wait.

Raf Keren, accordion,

Rizaldo Padilla, guitar

Lior Gishboliner , violin

Rachel Melas upright bass