Sonic-Gipsy-Fusion with Heart and Flame

Gipsy Fire is a modern jazz project that stands apart, rooted in Melanie’s Sinti heritage and defined by its bold, unmistakable style. With an inimitable blend of intricate jazz harmonies, fiery rhythms, and powerful Gipsy vocals, it carves out a sound that’s uniquely its own. This signature Sonic-Gipsy-Fusion is elevated by sophisticated pop influences and a daring hint of Lofi-Glowup-Scat, creating a fresh, genre-defying experience. At its core are Melanie’s original songs—vivid narratives spun from life and fantasy, delivered with an authenticity and depth that are distinctly Gipsy Fire.

Melanie Bong, the visionary behind this one-of-a-kind project, honed her craft at the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz under luminaries like Sheila Jordan, Mark Murphy, Andy Bey, and Jay Clayton. Sheila Jordan’s influence resonates most strongly, as her fusion of Native American heritage with jazz inspired Melanie to forge her own path, infusing her Sinti roots into a sound that’s both personal and revolutionary.

Gipsy Fire’s style is a vibrant, culinary collision of jazz, pop, and Latin American flavors, but it’s the way these elements are reimagined that sets it apart. Pulsating Brazilian rhythms ignite beneath Melanie’s commanding voice, while lush harmonies intertwine with a flair that’s entirely her own. Her songwriting—almost entirely self-penned—brings forth stories that are raw, fantastical, and unmistakably stamped with Gipsy Fire’s identity.

Joined by a stellar lineup, Melanie often collaborates with musicians who share her cultural lineage, amplifying the project’s distinctive spirit. Notable collaborators include Lulo Reinhardt, featured on the album Gipsy Fire and at numerous live performances, as well as virtuoso guitarist Lancy Falta, rising star Christiano Gitano, violinist Sandro Roy, and saxophonist Tony Lakatos – all of whom have graced Gipsy Fire’s stage.

Basic Line-Up:

• Melanie Bong (Vocals)
• Tizian Jost (Piano)
• Eduardo Dudu Penz (Bass)
• Bastian Jütte (Drums)

Gipsy Fire is more than music – it’s a bold statement of identity, passion, and creative freedom.

Lancy Falta, descended from the Reinhardt clan through his mother, learned guitar at 10 from his father, Bobby Falta (Schnuckenack Reinhardt Quartet co-founder). Now a top European musician, he shines as a guitarist and composer. His latest CD, Lancy Lot, hit Germany’s Top 20 in 2022, with original works performed live by his band, Lancy Falta Sindicartel. Known for his exceptional skill, he’s collaborated with legends like Joe Pass, Chaka Khan, and Joe Zawinul, who once sought him for his band before passing in 2007.

Melanie and Lulo Reinhardt build a perfect musical partnership in this project. Lulo, one of the most sought-after descendants of the legendary Django Reinhardt dynasty, is well aware of his heritage and has still managed to develop his very own style.

“GIPSY FIRE promises a fiery evening with a great jazz singer and a gifted acoustic guitarist.”