Mahala Rai Banda - Mahala Rai Banda (2005) CD-Rip

This sensational new band from the Gypsy ghetto of Bucharest combines a staple Romanian diet of violins & accordions with a horn section consisting of army brass band veterans, powered by a funky rhythm section. Formed by two people closely related to the Taraf de Haïdouks (violonist/arranger Aurel Ionita and Taraf musical director Stéphane Karo), the Mahala Raï Banda have recorded this debut album in Romania, and mixed it in collaboration with electrogypsy whiz Shantel. Their music evokes so many traditions familiar to American immigrants - a reference to New Orleans music is as palpable as the Eastern European traditions obvious to the group. Latin American immigrants can also relate to the rhythmic, festive feel.