gypsy punks
Thanks to the recommendation of several friends, I had the immense pleasure of witnessing the spectacle that is Gogol Bordello. A schizophrenic mix of punk, east European folk, dub and hip-hop, it was without a doubt the most enjoyable show I’ve seen this year¹. Trying to convey the energy and intensity they brought on stage leaves me at a loss for words, but others far more qualified for such endeavors could probably manage.
As to be expected, their studio recordings do little justice to their live act, but at this point I’ll take what I can get.
Immigrant Punk
Think Locally, Fuck Globally
Not A Crime
Also of semi-related interest is the mention of two Romani-centric directors on the Gogol Tour Bus Music Collection page. Emir Kusturica and Tony Gatlif. I was having trouble recalling films with any Romani characters, stereotypical or otherwise, so I think this warrants at least one trip to I Love Video.
¹ With of course the exception of the legendary Desmond Dekker, but that was in San Francisco, and until that show I was under the impression he was dead. So I’m not so sure that it counts.
November 4th, 2005 | 4:04 am
A kid came into my store the other day looking for Gogol Bordello… turns out he was buying it for his mom!
November 4th, 2005 | 7:14 am
Tony Gatlif is great. I think the thing I like most about his films is just being exposed to the amazing music he uses. I love the manner in which he incorporates it, showing how music is such an integral part of everyday life. Good stuff.