Oh yes indeed. Dickey has stated Django as a huge influence several times over the years. When Dickey wrote Jessica he was searching for something that would be Django inspired. Something he could play using just two fretting fingers if he wanted too. 

Django was a much bigger influence on many musicians than a lot of folks might realize.  Didn't Dickey and Vassar Clements play some Django tunes when they worked together back in the day?

The 'classic' ARU lineup from the Capricorn years (1990-93) would often open shows or the 2nd set with a Django tune called "Micro".  I don't think the band knew the name of the tune because it was always listed as Django Jam or just Django.  Excuse the high-gen VHS copy to youtube, but here is an example from a show they did at the Bottom Line that was broadcast on Japan's MTV: [url]

@zambi  'ats some awesome stuff right-chere!

In Dickey's own words

Django fans can be hardcore, there has even been articles in medical journals about how Django adapted to his injury. I'm not a Tony Iommi fan but I suspect he was also influenced after his injury.

In the clips in Billastro's original post, take a look at the second youtube clip around the 2:52 mark and how Django quickly ascending the fretboard and how he compensates stylistically for having only two playable fingers.  Just one example... he does it a few times in a couple of the other clips as well. 

It is remarkably similar to how one former ABB guitar player does that same style on occasion despite having 4 playable fingers on his fretting hand.

Also, here is a version of Django playing Micro.  I've heard him do a few different arrangements, but this one is closer to what ARU was doing.  I've never seen a live video of Django playing it, but there are a few example live audio clips out there.

Thanks for posting. He was a huge influence as mentioned. Jerry Garcia revered him as well.

Anyone ever see the woody allen movie Sweet and low down?? Sean Penn plays a guitarist whose main influence is Django...great movie!! check it out!

Thanks Bill et al - Zambi that one is titled Micro Mike on a Django album in my collection - never knew ARU opened w/it occasionally😎

@stephen You're welcome. I've been downloading Django's songs from YouTube. He was incredibly prolific both in the number of titles he recorded (at least 250) and in his virtuosity. He never played the same solos twice. Everything I've ever heard from him is fantastic.

Billastro

Jazz at Lincoln Center is hosting a Django class online. Justin Poindexter is the instructor. He plays guitar with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. There is one class/listening session left. February 10th at 7pm. JALC does an incredible Jazz Academy. There are many classes fans of ABB will find interesting. 

https://jazzatlincolncenter.squarespace.com/