CD Review: Gypsy Hill's 'Our Routes'

Gypsy Hill
Our Routes
Batov Records

Gypsy Hill is a contemporary gypsy, dub, and folk music group that specializes in the obscure and different. The music is akin to Klezmer, dub, dance, electronica, and Balkan beat sounds, though. The punchy horns, edgy percussion, and strings are playful and refreshing. The music is mainly instrumental throughout. Balkan music has been covered before, but never before has a throbbing, dub beat entered the genre. The lively and upbeat sounds are heady, swirling delicacies of dance music. There are eleven tracks that stir the soul and invigorate the mind. The popular group, Besh O Drom, is even featured on the second track, "Balaka." Fans of gypsy, Klezmer, Balkan jazz, European folk music, and brass bands will appreciate the indigenous complexities of the music. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Robert Soko and His BalkanBeats' 'BalkanBeats Soundlab'

Robert Soko and His Balkan Beats
BalkanBeats Soundlab
Piranha

Bosnian Balkan-beat master, Robert Soko, presents an array of musicians that know how to perform danceable, Balkan beats. You will hear Watcha Clan, Slavic Soul Party, Besh O Drom, Romzil, Los Colorados, Shukar Collective, Antwerp Gipsy Ska Orkestra, Florian Mikuta, Mode Plagal, Deladap, and others. This is one wild ride into the contemporary world of Balkan music. Nothing is left undone here. There are wild rhythms, boisterous horns, and seemingly cacophonous musical wanderings. However, the result is much more focused and purposeful. There are vocals on some of the tracks, but the instrumental abilities win out hands down. Anyone interested in the skittish Balkan beats and loud horns will love Robert Soko’s selections and mixes. Balkan DJs rejoice and world music fans unite for an unforgettable, foot-stomping, and heart-pounding journey through Europe’s musical corridor. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Toni Kitanovski & Cherkezi Orchestra's 'Shukar'

Toni Kitanovski & Cherkezi Orchestra
Shukar
Yellowbird

Gypsy band music has been universal ever since the popularity of Besh O Drom and others that have paved the way for global acceptance of such an incredible (and danceable) musical delight. The Macedonian-based Toni Kitanovski is joined by the Cherkezi Orchestra on his latest release, Shukar. Shukar, which means, "good," is probably an understatement if one is referring to the music. The music takes on gypsy qualities, but explores inter-related musical influences, too. For instance, "Addis Abeba" examines a little Ethiopian jazz, while "Lagrimas Negras" looks at a Cuban and Latin jazz influence. The trumpet is a powerful instrument that nicely accompanies the giddy and jazzy guitar playing. The vocals of Tehamana Skenderovska are also very appealing. The twelve tracks contain vocals, trumpet, tapan drum, tarabuka, bass, melodica, french horn, organ, and guitars, which round out the musical experiences. Toni & Cherkezi Orchestra touches on Latin, jazz, gypsy, and experimental music that is sure to elicit happiness in one's heart. ~ Matthew Forss