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CD Review
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Relix, CD Review >>
BALKAN BEAT BOX
NU MED
JDub/US/CD
New York-based saxophonist Ori Kaplan and drummer Tamir Muskat have been tooling around the borough underground for years, performing in groundbreaking bands like Gogol Bordello and Big Lazy. Turns out a turn to the East, Eastern Europe that is, would be their breakthrough. With the creation of Balkan Beat Box, the pair took the big, pounding sounds of brass, killer guitar work and some mighty fine beats and made one of the most groundbreaking albums on this scene with their self-titled debut. This follow-up is equally compelling on a songwriting level and much cleaner on the production tip. The presence of frenetic Israeli emcee Tomer Yosef, a skinny and hyperactive live performer, is tasteful and humorous, giving the record a close approximation to their stage show. Still, studio work is key, and on Nu Med Muskat's hand proves steady. The Moroccan-based rhythm of "Pachima" is a swirling pastiche of Gnawa with tasteful electronica, while the clean horns of "BBBeat" frolic amidst a flurry of darbuka and drums.
04/19/07
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