The History Channel’s America: The Story of Us attempts to tell the story of America, from its inception as a strife-torn colonial backwater to the superpower it is today. Rather than give a sweeping idea of America’s founding, The Story of Us weaves together personal stories through the big picture, giving a kind of folk history.

It's often been noted, sadly but accurately, that classic American pop culture retains more popularity overseas than it does here in the homeland. Across the Pacific, Japanese artists continue the tradition of offering a safe haven for "the music" with their own authentic interpretations of jazz standards.

Take one part rag time, one part jazz, a little jive, a hint of jug and washboard with a sprinkle of doo-wop, throw it in the tub and you have a concoction close to homemade hooch. A cocktail of music flavors that everyone wants, yet there is a little unexpected twist.

Gypsy Swing Jazz as a concept, is most directly credited to the body of work and the style of famed French guitarist Django Rheinhardt. Gypsy Swing Jazz is also the title of the Japanese jazz ensemble Swing Amor's first album, directly defining what sort of music they are about, and the rich tradition they are attempting to embody.