The Gypsy QueensLondon **

The name may suggest a camp Gypsy Kings tribute, but these five guys do straightforward versions of songs we know and love (plus a few we know and loathe). Led by singer/guitarist Didier Casnati, The Gypsy Queens began busking 12 years ago and eventually worked their way up to serenading the likes of Elton John, Rod Stewart, Bono, Chris Martin and Prince Harry at restaurants and private parties. Their debut album follows The Gypsy Kings’ blueprint, blending French, Italian and Latin favourites such as Symathique, Volare and Malaguena with such US West Coast classics as Ventura Highway and (aaargh!) Country Roads. Lead track L’Americano features chanteuse Madeleine Peyroux, while Graham Nash jumps on board to help out on Marrakech Express. Great harmonies, fun attitude, but hardly a great leap forward for World Music.

Download tracks: L'Americano, Marrakech Express