Hot Club of Detroit

Hot Club of Detroit (HCOD) is a premier American jazz ensemble that emerged in 2003, spearheaded by guitarist Evan Perri. While their foundational identity is built upon the Gypsy jazz (Jazz Manouche) legacy of Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli, HCOD is distinguished by their willingness to modernize the template.

Based in Detroit and signed to Mack Avenue Records, the group incorporates elements of hard bop, musette, and even contemporary classical influences, moving beyond mere revivalism. A key component of their signature sound is the inclusion of the button accordion, played by virtuoso Julien Labro, which adds a sophisticated European texture that contrasts with the group's gritty, Midwestern work ethic. Critically, they are praised for their technical precision and the seamless integration of woodwinds like the tenor sax and clarinet, which is less common in traditional string-only Hot Clubs. Their evolution across albums like 'It’s About That Time' and 'Junction' shows a trajectory toward more adventurous arrangements and original compositions, cementing their status as innovators within the global swing scene.