
The Bulgarian combo's American jazz mash--the striding pianos and punchy rhythms of the late ragtime era--mixes dashingly with its Eastern European cousin: minor-key clarinets and loungy vocals. Whatever the exact genealogy, just know that Django himself would tap his foot.
Jazz began blossoming around the beginning of the twentieth century with cities like Chicago, New York and New Orleans taking center stage. This style stemmed from ragtime and blues, featuring group and solo improvisation often performed by horns, clarinet and a rhythm section. Dixieland has experienced revivals throughout the years, particularly in the '50s and '70s.
Notable Artists: Louis Armstrong, Eddie Condon, Sidney Bechet, Original Dixieland Jazz Band