CD Review: Jaro Milko & The Cubalkanics' Cigarros Explosives!'

Jaro Milko & The Cubalkanics
Cigarros Explosives!
Asphalt-Tango Records

The Switzerland-based band, Jaro Milko & The Cubalkanics, combine edgy, Latin percussion from Cuba and punchy, horn-driven, gypsy music from the Balkans. The seemingly unlikely combination of instruments and styles comes together to form a unique and fluid blend of world fusion at its finest. The musical syncopation adds a little psychedelic moments, while other sounds take on a neo-ska origin. At any rate, The thirteen tracks are diverse, catchy, and very danceable. The surf-like guitar accompaniments and fluid bass-lines bring out the best in Cuban, Balkan, and gypsy music. Fans of heart-pounding dance riffs, punchy percussion and horns, and Latin rhythms inspired by the 1960's and 70's will especially love its resilient and memorable sound. Cigarros Explosives! is what results when you travel through Hungary, Switzerland, and Cuba--all at the same time! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Zdob Si Zdub's 'Basta Mafia!'

Zdob Si Zdub
Basta Mafia!
Asphalt-Tango Records

Moldova might be one of the poorest European countries, but they are rich in musical productivity from their hottest band, Zdob Si Zdub. Basta Mafia! is a rock, folk, pop, and edgy, punk-driven production steeped in ska, electronica, and in-your-face melodies that shake one's body into submission. The dark melodies contain rock-like vocals, but nothing that is too hard on the ears. The vocals are perfect overall, and generally fit the alternative-punk-rock vein. The lyrics are humorous and pertain to traveling, relationships, and the poetic side of society. Basta Mafia! is a cutting-edge album from a seldom-heard region of Europe--especially to world music fans outside of Europe. The slightly avant-garde elements of the album are somewhat linked to Balkan tunes and the musical atmosphere of Berlin, Germany. A stunning release from a Moldovan Weezer-Blink 182! ~ Matthew Forss