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Posted on Sat, Aug 3, 2013 : 10:49 a.m.

Hot Club of Detroit, at Kerrytown Sunday, dedicates new CD to absent player

By Roger LeLievre

The release of the new album “Junction” is bittersweet for the Gypsy jazz band Hot Club of Detroit, playing Sunday at Kerrytown Concert House.

One of their members, bassist Andrew Kratzat (and his fiancee), were seriously injured in an auto accident in July 2011, and are currently on a long road to recovery.

"This album is a dedication to both of them," said guitarist Paul Brady. "It's been tough for us, musically but also emotionally," added accordionist Julien Labro. "Andrew is like a brother, a family member. But we're still hopeful, and one day I'm sure he'll be back to playing."

Hot Club of Detroit is one of many groups worldwide that honor the memory of the Quintette du Hot Club de France, featuring the late guitar virtuoso Django Reinhardt. In 2010, the group played at the Michigan Theater with Hot Club of San Francisco, and more than held its own with the California ensemble. A snipped of Lady Gaga’s hit “Paparazi” delighted younger audience members, and showed that just about any song can be Django-fied.

Besides Labro and Brady, Hot Club of Detroit’s current lineup includes Evan Perri, guitar; Andrew Bishop, saxophone; and Jordan Schug, bass/composer.

Hot Club of Detroit plays at Kerrytown Concert House at 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 4. Tickets are $10-$35. Info and reservations at www.kerrytownconcerthouse.com or 734-769-2999.