I just returned from Paris (and it was fabulous, as always) and saw two great concerts. Especially compared to the vast majority of people who post here, I simply don’t have the experience or knowledge to give an educated review of the concerts or the talent. But, but what it’s worth, here are my impressions: The first concert was Le Freylekh Trio at the Olympic Café in the 18th arrondissement with Jacques Gandard on violin, Thomas Feterman on guitar, and his brother David Feterman on double bass. Obviously, the music was klezmer, and actually it was the first time I’d ever experienced klezmer music live! (I have dozens of recordings by various artists on CDs, however) There was a group who played first (I have no idea who they were, but they were decent). I really don’t think the music could be labeled as terribly innovative (though I don’t have the experience to properly gauge), but it was executed quite beautifully, in my humble opinion. The violin could sing quite sweetly and eloquently, yet could dance as fast as the fingers could fly, never missing a note, and sacrificing nothing in quality for speed. They were new tunes (to me) yet traditional tunes. Vraiment, the music was executed flawlessly. There is little doubt that the players are quite accomplished. Personally, I loved the intimacy of a tiny cellar deep inside Paris to hear this music. The ambiance, paired with the wonderful music, penetrated the imagination with stories and images that are with me still. Again, I simply don’t have the experience to compare the group with others, but I thoroughly enjoyed it and will absolutely look up the group again when I return to Paris! Also, I’ve heard that whenever Tim Sparks is in town, he plays with them (and that is definitely something I’d love to experience). There is more on the group here: http://www.mfvi.com/freylekhtrio/ (Personally, I don’t think the music on their website does the group justice at all) The other group was La Caravane Passe, which played both klezmer and Hungarian music. The concert I saw was at 3’z’arts in the 20th arrondissement. Thomas Feterman was also in this group. This group was larger, with brass, alto sax, and percussion. It was a great, rousing concert – in fact, only the comatose were still glued to their seats! I really loved both groups, but if I had to choose my favorite, it would have to be Le Freylekh Trio, which is odd since I’m generally not particularly enthusiastic about the violin (I’m not saying I don’t like it, but it isn’t a favorite instrument of mine). The worst part of the concerts? They had to end. Jennifer _________________________________________________________________ Get 200+ ad-free, high-fidelity stations and LIVE Major League Baseball Gameday Audio! http://radio.msn.click-url.com/go/onm00200491ave/direct/01/