An introduction to jazz in Paris

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French musician Alex Freiman says that “jazz is a compressed history of the modern world”.

I sat down with Alex in the Square René Viviani park, right beside the Shakespeare and Company book store, where Alex had just finished a live set in front of a crowd.  

We talked about the vibrant jazz scene in Paris, great musicians to get you into the jazz world, and how Alex is bringing live music to the streets of Paris.

We also talked about how jazz music can lead to life as an outcast, the trouble with how the movie La La Land depicted the Paris jazz scene, and the day the Notre Dame burned down.

Some of the jazz spots Alex recommends in the show include Le Duc des Lombard, Sunrise, and New Morning (where Prince used to play).

In the podcast episode, you’ll hear people in the background, the occasional church bell, siren, and the crunch of Parisian gravel under people’s feet as they walk past. 

Here is the podcast chat on Spotify.

To get Alex’s album, Play It Gentle, from Shakespeare and Co, click here.

While you’re at it, why not add my book to the bundle and get them sent together!

And lastly, if you’re enjoying The Earful Tower, become a member here on Patreon here.

I’ll leave you with this, one of Alex’s songs on Spotify. Enjoy – and maybe see you don’t out the front of Shakespeare and Co one of these Fridays (5 to 7pm).