Paris 49

Paris 49 http://do512.com/band/paris-49 http://do512.com/band/paris-49.xml Olivier Giraud left his hometown of Paris France in 1988 to settle down in Austin, Texas and play music full time. His first major project was 8 ½ Souvenirs, signed with BMG/RCA in 1994. With this band, Olivier opened wide the doors to European influences such as Serge Gainsbourg, Nino Rota and Django Reinhardt. 8 ½ Souvenirs toured throughout the US and Canada, partnering with bands such as The Brian Setzer Orchestra and recorded 4 albums with BMG's RCA. Appearing on Austin City Limits and sharing the stage with Willie Nelson both contributed to the band's popularity and respect from the public. In 2000, the band retired after the release of a double live album recorded during a "Tribute Tour of Austin". In 2003, Olivier gets together with close musician friends Whit Smith, Dave Biller, Ryan Gould, Damien Llanes and Jon Doyle to form the Cheapo Trio, named after Cheapo Discs where they perform on a regular basis. The music is more focused on the work of Django Reinhardt and the Quintet of the Hot Club de France. The point is more to have fun than to meet great success but the group catches the attention of club owners and the media. Within a few months they land a weekly Happy Hour at the famous Continental Club as well as a casual acoustic slot at Chez Nous—the best french restaurant in town. Shortly after, Olivier meets Austin horn player David Chenu, also of French origin. The group then becomes Paris49 and starts performing original material. The material becomes richer and clearly the band is now aiming higher. It has become a remarkably entertaining group of professional and talented musicians who are inspired improvisers, yet remain fond of the simplicity of great melodies. The material has started to spread across the board and includes in addition to Gypsy influences, 1930's to 40's American standards treated in the most unique way, as well as French and Italian classics and movie scores. paris49 http://s3.amazonaws.com/do512/photos/62971/1_poster.jpg 183682094 http://www.myspace.com/parisfortynine AUSTIN, Texas http://paris49.com lhb8PemIRkc