For many casual music listeners, the word ‘jazz’ can be daunting because it can seem like a genre that only the music aficionado could appreciate. From the novice ear to the expert, the Milwaukee Hot Club weaves a beautiful gypsy jazz sound that all will appreciate. Scott Hlavenka and Guy Fiorentini play acoustic guitars and Evan Paydon holds it down on his upright bass. Paired with the laid back atmosphere of the Hotel Foster, it’s the perfect recipe for a relaxing afternoon of amazing entertainment. Most of the songs in their set are instrumental, with Scott and Guy alternating the lead and rhythm parts as Evan weaves in numerous bass solos. Their collective expertise and toe tapping rhythms always keep the audience engaged, and I frequently find myself closing my eyes to really feel their sound only to open them again to watch their nimble fingers. The seamless transition from one player to another is truly a sight to behold; like a secret musical conversation that we the audience gets to listen to. Guy provides lead vocals in the song “Margie”, a sweet little ditty made famous by one Django Reinhardt. He also sings “Nobody Loves You (When You’re Down & Out)” with Scott and Evan rounding out the chorus with backup vocals. There isn’t much more one can say about them, because words don’t do justice to the beautiful sounds they produce. You don’t need to know the intricacies of jazz, you don’t need to know what a hot club is, but you do need to check these guys out; it’s consistently great music that anyone can enjoy.