The Charlie Christians

Championing the sound of Be-Bop pioneer and all-time great guitarist Charlie Christian are Austin, Texas’ aptly named “The Charlie Christians.” Born out of the Monday night swing music scene of recent years at the Sahara Lounge is this group who pays homage to, but without sterilely replicating the the sound of the late 30s - early 40s famous Benny Goodman Sextet featuring Christian on guitar as well as Lionel Hampton on vibes. Utilizing two electric guitars (JD Pendley and Lindsay Greene), flute and saxophone (Lauryn Gould), string bass (Joshua Hoag), and drumset (Jason Baczynski), they adapt many iconic moments contained in the sextet’s original recordings, often harmonizing riffs and solos that showcase the genius that was Charlie Christian as well as the unique swing style of this current “Charlie Christians” lineup. Their music is inventive, accessible, in the pocket, and great for dancing and listening.