CD Review: Raya Brass Band's 'Raya'

Raya Brass Band
Raya
Self-Release

The New York-based sextet, Raya Brass Band, brings to life the music of Eastern Europe and Balkan regions on their latest release, Raya. The sax, trumpet, accordion, keyboards, tupan, snare drum, and assorted percussion are all the Raya Brass Band needs to produce great, instrumental music. The horns, tuba, and percussion are quite varied and innovative, but nothing too far from historical traditions. The nine-track album features a rousing mix of sounds emanating from a variety of instruments that work harmoniously together to create an engaging and upbeat result. Though, the album is under forty-minutes in length, there is plenty of music to cheer about. The punchy, jazz-laden tune, "Sugar and Salt," adds a swirling mix of heady horns and great percussion for a slightly Gypsy/neo-classical approach that would be equally-at home on the classic Seven Brides For Seven Brothers film soundtrack. Overall, the music is diverse enough to capture the ears of listeners everywhere. Fans of brass bands, Gypsy music, instrumental tunes, world jazz, and fusion will find Raya very raya-mazing! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: TriBeCaStan's 'Goddess Polka Dottess'

TriBeCaStan
Goddess Polka Dottess
Evergreene

The fifth studio recording from TriBeCaStan is yet another excellent release of truly groovy world music. The group brings in bluegrass, funk, folk, dance, middle eastern, south Asian, jazz, psych, rock, blues, pop, and other elements in magical medley of sounds. Mostly instrumental, Goddess Polka Dottess, is a whimsical title for a relatively straight-forward release, but it is not without it's ups and downs. Importantly, there is nothing bad about this album. In fact, it contains a rousing mix of melodies and rhythms that keeps one on their toes. The bouncy, Balkan-esque waltz, "Zoli's Strut," is an amazing medley of pure dance pleasure. The South Asian-inspired, "Majestic Ganesh," is one of the few vocal tracks on the album. The repertoire brings in a plethora of instruments covering a range of strings, horns, and percussion instruments for a genuine world music blend. The group is spearheaded by John Kruth and Jeff Greene and they provide some production and songwriting credits here. Overall, Goddess Polka Dottess is a great instrumental and vocal (where applicable) album of world music fusion. Try them out today! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: The Dolomites' 'Japan Years Volumes I, II, & III'

The Dolomites
Japan Years Volumes I, II, & III [3-CD]
Alien Arts Alliance

The Dolomites, led by Stevhen Koji Baianu, create stirring melodies and rhythms caught between the past and the future by incorporating a mix of influences from Japanese enka to gypsy, Balkan-inspired tunes, and Latin-American cumbia. Confused yet? Need not be. The group, which consists of nearly 70 members from different areas of the globe, celebrates the best of their work in a three-volume EP set comprised of certain years, such as 2006-2009, 2007-2010, and 2006-2010. Each album contains five tracks for approximately twenty-minutes an album. There is a mix of music on each album, but all of it draws upon electronica, cumbia, folk, roots, Balkan, Gypsy, neo-classical, enka, horn-powered ballads, and quirky, percussive renderings throughout. Stevhen's vocals are ruddy and charismatic with similarities to darker Russian folk groups or even ErsatzMusika from Germany. Moreover, the album art should clue you in that this is going to be an interesting ride. For instance, the Jamiroquai or Batman-influenced silhouette artwork on the back of the albums should alert everyone that this is a unique production. Though, some of the vocals are a little rough, out of tune, or drunk-like in nature, but that does not make it a terrible listen. In fact, anyone seeking unique, world music with numerous geographic influences will find The Dolomites solid as a rock (pun intended). ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Tipsy Oxcart's 'Upside Down'

Tipsy Oxcart
Upside Down
Self-Release

Balkan music from Brooklyn? Yes, indeed. The instrumental ensemble creates dance-friendly tunes with lively percussion, trumpets, baritone/alto/tenor sax, trombone, accordion, violin, electric bass, and drums. Though, some of the songs are more contemplative and serene, a majority of the tracks are upbeat, edgy, and full of high-energy. "Homecoming" contains a Balkan-beat that is reminiscent of South American cumbia, but in a Balkan form. The frenzied "Tutti Frutti" is a rousing track with blaring horns, bubbly bass, and punchy drum beats throughout. There are eleven tracks in all. With track titles as diverse as "Fax Mission," "Honey Dripper," "Tipska," "Bone Dance," and others, Upside Down will astonish you with their uncanny rhythms and contemporary sounds in pure, Balkan music form. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Brooklyn Gypsies' 'Sin Fronteras'

Brooklyn Gypsies
Sin Fronteras
Wonderwheel Recordings

The diverse sounds of Brooklyn's streets and neighborhoods have never been highlighted like this before. There are urban stylings, flamenco sounds, North African music, Middle Eastern melodies, and of course, gypsy elements. The result is a rather modern recording incorporating the talents of Carmen Estevez, Takuya Nakamura, Tina Kristina, Brandon Lewis, Troy Simms, and Zeb. With songs rich in Spanish, English, and even Russian vocals, you know this is going to be an interesting recording. If gypsy music originated in Brooklyn, Sin Fronteras would be the end result. There are dancehall, reggae, dub, electronica, and Arabic influences that add authenticity and depth. The syncopated beats, modern Middle Eastern infusions, and brass textures gives new meaning to the term gypsy music. Ten great tracks comprise the album. Brooklyn Gypsies know how to make music. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Axel Krygier's 'Hombre De Piedra'

Axel Krygier
Hombre De Piedra
Crammed 

The contemporary recording, Hombre De Piedra, showcases an experimental vein of Axel Krygier's cross-cultural side. As a singer and composer, Axel brings together spaghetti Western, folk, Balkan, French cafe, blues, electronica, funk, and jazz influences for a truly exciting collection of songs that are never boring. The musical origins stem from Axel's Argentinian background, but this is not your typical tourist trap music. Instead, Axel combines edgy French, Russian, and Latin-American song styles for an enthralling release. A diverse instrumental repertoire helps the songs reach new heights and incredible appeal. Whether it is down-tempo or world music, Axel manages to create wonderful songs that are highly catchy and always memorable. If you are into new music with an ear-friendly beat; then try Axel's new release. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Sarakina's 'Live In Studio'

Sarakina
Live In Studio
Amadeus

The Polish band, Sarakina, brings us a new album recorded during a live concert at Studio Rembrandt by Polish Radio Bialystok in Poland on February 23, 2014. The contemporary folk and Balkan musical connections are prevalent throughout with lush percussion and swirling rhythms led by strong, neo-classical vocals by Eliza Sacharczuk. Eliza's vocals are joined by kaval, bagpipes, tupan, tambura, clarinet, double-bass, and assorted percussion. The instrumental sections are vibrant, magical, and somewhat whimsical. The haunting and breathy kaval flute and organic drums, along with the dizzying sounds of the bagpipes, allows the album to explore various musical styles and influences ranging from the Mediterranean, the Balkans, Turkey, and Western Europe. There are some applause segments at the end of the songs, but it does not interfere with the flow of the album. The recording quality is excellent overall. Fans of Balkan folk, European folk, instrumental fusion, and lively world music will love Sarakina. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Amira Medunjanin's 'Silk & Stone'

Amira Medunjanin
Silk & Stone
World Village

Hailing from Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Amira Medunjanin is a sensational singer that brings a neo-operatic tone to the mix. The folk songs are punctuated by jazzy stlyings, world travels, and relaxing vocal elements. The breezy songs are emotive and full of beauty. The nine tracks contain scintillating guitars with oud, piano, kanun, and double bass for a truly delectable release. The poignant vocals are clear, powerful, and mature. The plaintive ensemble instruments are very moving with instrumental sections that abound throughout the album. Fans of Balkan opera, folk music, and European music will love Silk & Stone. The music is smooth like silk and solid as a stone without any deficiencies. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Cocek Brass Band's 'Here Comes Shlomo'

Cocek Brass Band
Here Comes Shlomo
Self-Release

The five-piece brass band, Cocek Brass Band, instills the Balkan spirit of brass and jazz on their debut release, Here Comes Shlomo. The band formed in the Northeastern U.S., but their roots extend far beyond the borders of North America--with swirling, bubbling brass melodies blurting out from two trumpets and a tuba--all highlight the band's international style and presence. The music is a mix of Roma, gypsy, klezmer, New Orleans jazz, and Dixieland orchestrations that are highly-textured and classically-significant. The sauntering tunes are completely instrumental without any vocal accompaniment, which suits the music perfectly. The album is based on Balkan cocek dance tunes. Anyone with an interest in traditional Balkan music will find the music very entertaining and upbeat. All jazz, brass, and band fans unite! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Zongo Junction's 'No Discount'

Zongo Junction
No Discount
Electric Cowbell Records

The Brooklyn-based, Afro-beat maestros, Zongo Junction, brings us a moving piece of history with Ghanaian-infused, instrumental tunes in the shadows of Fela Kuti and others. The funky, psychedelic tracks are danceable and emotive with bubbling keys, punchy sax, and diverse instrumentation in a jazzy setting. The writhing sounds are Afro-beat grooves at their finest. The sax frenzy on “A Van That Got Away,” proves why Zongo Junction makes the best Afro-beat music in America. The down-tempo electronica of “Longtooth,” showcases their diverse talent of Afro-beat, jazz, experimental, funk, and pop. The entire album is an instrumental journey, which is very likable throughout. There are even some Balkan jazz or Klezmer moments on "Invented History." At any rate, No Discount is an engaging, Afro-beat pleasure that will be enjoyed by everyone that fancies music of the African kind. ~ Matthew Forss 

CD Review: Sondorgo's 'Tamburocket'

Sondorgo
Tamburocket
Riverboat Records

Hungary's Sondorgo plays Hungarian folk music with a Turkish, Slavic, and Balkan influence. The music is steeped in Gypsy horns, folksy strings, and great plucking. The plucked instruments featured on Tamburocket are various tamburas. The mandolin-like sounds of the tambura create a folksy rhythm and bright, cheery sound. Other instruments include flute, darbuka, clarinet, sax, kaval, and tapan. There are some vocals throughout, but the primary attribute of this recording is in the instrumentals. There are folk dance tunes, trance-like tracks, and effervescent instrumentals with great deliveries. Sondorgo's Tamburocket is a celebration of the music from Hungary with influences extending beyond the borders of the country. Fans of Hungarian folk, world music, European music, and Balkan jazz will love Sondorgo. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Karikatura's 'Eyes Wide'

Karikatura
Eyes Wide
Ropeadope

The New York City-based Karikatura produces a worldwide release of music inspired by many different countries and cultures. For example, there is nostalgic psych-funk inherent in "Someone," while a Balkan-Klezmer beat pervades "Brighton Beach" and a reggae beat percolates through "NYC Hustle." The band comprises of Ryan Acquaotta on lead vocals and percussion, Dima Kay on guitars, samples, back-up vocals, and glockenspeil, Eric Legaspi on bass, Morgan Greentstreet on drums, percussion, back-up vocals, and samples, Joe MF Wilson on sax and glockenspiel, and Ric Becker on trombone. Karikatura seems to capture different musical styles and make them their own. Where else could you find Zimbabwean chimurenga music and Klezmer music all on the same album? Eyes Wide is meant to open one's eyes and hearts to other musical styles and cultures. Karikatura still retains a unique voice amid all the influences and instruments. Everyone should check out Karikatura. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Figli Di Madre Ignota's 'Bellydancer'

Figli Di Madre Ignota
Bellydancer
Godzilla Market

Hailing from Italy, these funk, punk, and psychedelic jazz magnates know how to create edgy and diverse musical stylings on Bellydancer. The vocals are in English and Italian. There are eleven tracks in all and each one has its own story and message. The punchy, rock-infused anthem, "Bellydancer," is a great jazzy track with youthful exuberance and pizzazz. The swirling beats of "Mediterranean Voodoo," showcases the group's creative efforts that incorporate jazz, punk, funk, and experimental elements without fault. The Balkan-tinged, psych-edged, and punk-ridden "Sex Music Pasta," is an upbeat, horn-laden tune with a punchy rhythm and loud vocals. Some of the songs have a classical edge, but the entire album is infused with Balkan and Mediterranean rhythms, psych, funk, jazz, and rock elements that make for an interesting album that purists should stay away from. Nevertheless, purists may cross-over and become a believer in good music - no matter where it comes from and how it is played. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Ensemble Tirana's 'The Bridge That Links Time'

Ensemble Tirana
The Bridge That Links Time
Frea Records

The polyphonic a capella group, Ensemble Tirana, hails from Albania, but their influence is deeply rooted in Balkan life and society. The new album contains over one hour of music over eighteen tracks. The songs are mostly instrumental with only minor accompaniment on flute and cifteli stringed instrument. Founded in 1994, the group contains tenor, baritone, and bass-baritone vocal arrangements. The six-member group is comprised of Nazo Celaj, Hyso Xhaferaj, Dionis Delia, Edmond Lila, Luan Sula, and Ervin Kastrati. The music incorporates historical chants from the seventeenth century. Anyone familiar with polyphonic singing will find enjoyment in the vocal tracks, while others will be yearning for more instrumental prowess. However, the vocals are great and present a great historical story for a modern era. At any rate, Ensemble Tirana inspires all to take a listen. Ensemble Tirana is the bridge that links the past with the present. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Solfrid Molland's 'Musikken er mit fedreland'

Solfrid Molland
Musikken er mit fedreland
KKV

Norway's Solfrid Molland is a talented vocalist, accordionist, and pianist with an ear for European, Scandinavian, and gypsy rhythms and melodies. Solfrid's new album attempts to highlight the Roma music genre of gypsy with regards to Norway's influence. Solfrid is joined by Gheorgie Vasile, Valentin Vasile, Ion Cantaragiu Rasturnel, Gjermund Silset, Lars Tormod Jenset, and a choir. The heart-felt violin pulls at the heart-strings, but it is very fitting. The gypsy rhythms are rich and moving. The instruments come together in a whirling fashion to create a mesmerizing, instrumental interplay between vocals and heritage. The neo-classical, world fusion, balkan jazz, and gypsy melodies makes the album shine with memorable sounds. Anyone interested in gypsy music and Norwegian music will love Solfrid's Musikken er mit fedreland. ~ Matthew Forss  

CD Review: Ego Vs. Emo's Self-Titled Release

Ego Vs. Emo
Ego Vs. Emo
Egotop Rec

German electro-klezmer music? Yes, indeed. That is the only way to describe Ego Vs. Emo's latest musical offering. The album contains seven long tracks of instrumental glory littered with danceable elements, brassy and bossy klezmer sounds, and swirling melodies and rhythms that are punchy and original. The songs are full of vibrant sax, violin, drums, accordion, guitar, and electronic programming. The songs are titled in German, but consist of various numbers. There are a couple spoken, German vocals on "Hundertdrei," but the majority of music is instrumental. Balkan jazz, klezmer, big band, and psychedelic constructions define the primary theme of Ego Vs. Emo's self-titled album. If the band's name won't draw you in, then the music will. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Earl Mobile Orquestra's 'Mosaiq'

Earl Mobile Orquestra
Mosaiq
Out - O - Space Records

The Germany-based group, Earl Mobile Orquestra, incorporates swinging, Balkan, jazz, and Latin-infused elements throughout the ten tracks for a truly world fusion release of danceable music on Mosaiq. The jazzy sounds are upbeat, very moving, and top-notch. The tracks are wholly instrumental and the band is named after the general manager. The group's repertoire includes a pianist, bassist, drummer, violinist, guitarist, and trumpeter. The punchy sounds are worthy of repeated listens, as each listen brings out something new. The jaunty piano, punchy brass, and swirling melodies are something reminiscent of Balkan jazz, gypsy rhythms, and folk music. This is some of the best music to come out of Germany--especially with a Balkan twist. Get it today! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Thomas Blondet's 'Futureworld'

Thomas Blondet
Futureworld
Rhythm & Culture Music

Washington, DC-based DJ, producer, and global connoisseur, Thomas Blondet, brings us a rich, cinematic, and dance-laden collection of multicultural rhythms, melodies, and works of art. The globally-infused music brings together Indian, Balkan, Latin, and Caribbean influences with traditional vocals and stirring melodies that are awe-inspiring, pulsating, and unforgettable. This is not your typical heart-pounding dance repertoire. Instead, the music is more laid-back with a fusion of trip hop and lounge music coming to the forefront. Most of the tracks include featured musicians, such as Tina M, Monsoon, Carol C., Leyla Chatti, Kiran Gandhi, Filip Novosel,and Subatomic Sound System. The musical terrain traverses a range of styles and multicultural influences, but the music cinematic and dance elements are not to be missed. Futureworld should be heard by everyone in the presentworld. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Boris Kovac & La Campanella's 'Eastern Moon Rising'

Boris Kovac & La Campanella
Eastern Moon Rising
Riverboat Records/World Music Network

Balkan jazz artists, Boris Kovac & La Campella, know how to entertain the masses with their latest release, Eastern Moon Rising. Steeped in Balkan rhythms and gypsy melodies with jazz music at its core, Boris Kovac brings to life his Serbian roots on a marvelous quasi-classical and folk product. The album incorporates indigenous rhythms and melodies with equally-relevant instrumentation to create a truly remarkable world music recording. The folks at Riverboat/WMN know a thing or two about world music and the result is nothing short of spectacular. Eastern Moon Rising is a Balkan jazz and European music winner with vibrant strings, horns, percussion, and miscellaneous instrumentation. However, the loud, energetic, Balkan music most people know and love are not really found here. Think of the lighter sounds of the late-Cesaria Evora's band. Nearly an hour of music marks the album's eleven tracks. Fans of Balkan music, jazz, gypsy music, and world fusion will love the mostly instrumental tunes. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Bubamara Brass Band's 'Balkanteka'

Bubamara Brass Band
Balkanteka
Sketis Music

A Balkan music group from Russia? Absolutely. In fact, Bubamara Brass Band wastes no time throwing out the punchy brass melodies and rhythms with an earnest fervor. The upbeat, almost Middle Eastern-tinged percussion tracks combine a bit of gypsy music with bellydance. At any rate, the music will get your body moving. Bubamara even employs the musical talent of famed-Balkan maestro, Marko Markovic. The dozen tracks represent a structured, yet zany whirlwind of brassy tunes with a heady fever of a pace. Balkanteka is a moving album with danceable consequences that are anything but boring. The vocals are very good, too. Anyone with an interest in contemporary Balkan music--no matter where it's from--will love Bubamara Brass Band. ~ Matthew Forss