Unless you are really into Gypsy jazz, you’ve probably never heard of Denis Chang. However, If you were lucky enough to catch guitar virtuoso Lollo Meier’s performance last year at Parima’s Acoustic Lounge, you’ve actually already seen him. Despite otherworldly chops and a reputation as one of the finest guitarists on the planet, Chang stepped back from the spotlight to accompany Meier during his last Vermont appearance. Nice guy, huh? This Friday, the “Godfather of the Montréal Gypsy jazz scene” returns to Parima for a solo performance, marking the second time in six months that the Thai restaurant has hosted world class Gypsy jazz talent. Lucky us!

Chang is a Django Reinhardt acolyte, which is pretty much the equivalent of saying an American folk singer is a disciple of Woody Guthrie. In other words, “no shit.” Anyone who trades in slinky hothouse jazz is virtually obligated to cite Reinhardt as an influence. But few are more accomplished than Chang, who, in addition to being among the world’s most sought-after instructors, pals around with the likes of Stochelo Rosenberg, Fapy Lafertin, Ritary Gaguenetti and Rindo Winterstein. And no, those aren’t just awesome names. That list pretty much represents a who’s who of the global Gypsy jazz scene. And also, awesome names.

(Note: I hereby submit that in addition to “porn star” names — the name of your first pet, plus the street you grew up on — we should introduce “Gypsy jazz” names into the popular lexicon. For the formula, I suggest something simple, such as your name backwards. Mine? “Leinad Sellob.” See? It works!)

In all seriousness, it can be stated without a shred of hyperbole that Friday’s performance promises to be just about the finest display of swingin’ Gypsy jazz you’ll ever have the chance to hear. Really.

Local hothouse hooligans Swing Noire open the show.