The Hot Jazz Vagabonds

Vanessa Finney

Born: May 22

Vanessa Finney grew up in southern California, where she worked as a radio DJ and attended UCLA. Now based in southern Oregon, she hosts two podcasts at Jefferson Public Radio: the pro-aging segment "My Better Half" and "The Creative Way," an artist profile series.

She performs at venues throughout Oregon's wine country and just released her first album, "Bésame Mucho," with arranger Mark Hamersly.

Hot Club SRQ

Hot Club of SRQ - We play Gypsy Jazz that is deeply rooted in the style of Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli. This music simply swings and is full of beauty and romance! We emulate the style of what the French call "Jazz Manouche" and "Le Jazz Hot" in the style of Sinti virtuosos and the "Quintette du Hot Club de France."

The heart of this ensemble is the violin and vocals of Keven Aland, the guitar of Jon McLaughlin and bass playing of Glenn Stevenson. Their string jazz ensemble has been thoughtfully cultivated and crafted for over a decade

Paul David Carl Mansell

Born: April 13, 1973

Paul Mansell is one of the leading ukulele performers in the world.  He is signed to two publishers - Kevin Mayhew Publsihers and Mel Bay Ltd.  He has released 6 books on ukulele and 2 albums - his latest one being Jazz Ukulele.  As a composer he has been commsioned by the Royal School of Music to compose 12 pieces for them. He has performed at many of the top ukulele festivals and in 2024 performed to 900 people at the prestigious 'Ukulele Festival of Great Britain' with players such as James Hill and Jeff Peterson.   In 2020 I was chosen by Hal Leonard Publishers to present a Ukulele workshop at Olympia in London to a packed out audience. I have also given lectures at Surrey University on playing the Ukulele.

Larry Gelberg

Swingbooty

Active since: 2010

Swingbooty got its start in 2010 playing for swing dancers, flow performers, and break dancers in clubs and festivals.  Starting out as an instrumental Manouche (gypsy jazz) band they added a vocalist in 2014 and have remained a seven-piece band ever since.  Swingbooty has the driving rhythm and danceable beat that is emblematic of Swing music.  Their shows frequently include various types of visual and performance art including fire and flow. They have released two LPs and several concept videos.  The band is based in Knoxville, Tennessee.

PLAYERS

Sean Mantione

Influenced by legends like Buddy Rich and Big Sid Catlett, Sean Mantione’s drumming blends versatility and finesse. Whether using brushes or sticks, Sean brings texture and vitality to every performance.  He first discovered manouche jazz in his home town (near Scranton, PA) playing with friends at Abbey Road.  Commenting on the Swingbooty experience he remarks: "I love our chemistry as a band both on and off stage. We combine all our influences in and out of jazz and wrap it together like a delicious burrito."
Fan Quote: "Sean’s drumming adds punch and precision while keeping the Swingbooty vibe light and joyful."

Adam Friedman

Adam Friedman grew up in Ft. Lauderale and studied music in high school and later attended Berklee.  He has played guitar as a core member of Swingbooty since 2023.  With influences like Julian Lage and George Benson, Friedman brings to the band a blend of melodic mastery and improvisational flair.   Fan Quote: "I could listen to Adam’s guitar solo all night. His knack for reimagining melodies with fresh improvisations is unmatched." –Robert Casper

Les Cunningham

A former drummer turned gypsy jazz devotee, Les “Doc” Cunningham channels the spirit of Django Reinhardt, Angelo DeBarre, and Slava Tolstoy. Today, he plays guitar with Swingbooty and is a core member of the band since 2020.   He studied with jazz greats Robin Nolan and Slava Tolstoy, perfecting his rhythm guitar style that drives each song and provides the backbone for Swingbooty’s performances.  Fan quote:  “Les has a sixth sense for timing and a rare ability to weave fresh, improvised melodies." –Brad Baker

Quintet of the Hot Club of France

Active since: 1934

The Quintet of the Hot Club of France, founded in 1934 in Paris, was a pioneering jazz ensemble that blended traditional American jazz with the rhythms and melodies of French music. Led by guitarist Jean "Django" Reinhardt and violinist Stéphane Grappelli, the group is best known for creating a unique style known as "Gypsy jazz" or "Jazz Manouche." The band gained fame for its virtuosic performances and intricate improvisation, making a significant impact on both European and American jazz scenes. Despite facing adversity during World War II, the Quintet's influence on jazz remained lasting, as they introduced new possibilities for string instruments and helped popularize European jazz globally.