Ghetto Blaster

Thinking about the recent successful Prom concert by the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain brought to mind another band that managed to infiltrate the predominantly classical festival back in 2001.

David Krakauer's Klezmer Madness went down a storm; and despite the brevity of their set, they certainly brought something unique to the often stuffy and portentous summer festival.

If you have never encountered Krakauer's music before, you could well be in for a treat.
As if klezmer music isn't exciting enough - if ever a genre of music was designed purposely to dance and have a good time to klezmer is it - Krakauer cleverly incorporates the sound of a heavy electric guitar into the mix, blending artfully with his soaring clarinet; as well as the accompanying accordion, upright bass and drum.

The electric guitar brings a sense of modernity to the traditional sound; subverting the East European and Arabic rhythms to create an almost punk or metal like energy and intensity.

In places they sound like Gong at their instrumental jazziest best, but played at 78rpm.

Who needs a Wii when there's klezmer.
We love it. And so do our dogs.

Mazel Tov!
David Krakauer's Klezmer Madness
Prom 33, Royal Albert Hall, 2001.

A Medley of Dance Tunes
Klezmer for Sidney Bechet
Mazel Tov to the Bride & Groom

Excellent cassette rip @320kbs
Dizzy yourself up here