Record Reviews

KLEZMATICS ~ WE WERE MADE FOR THESE TIMES ASPHALT TANGO 9726 (Barcode: 4015698610116) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Klezmer Fusion Recorded: 2025 Released: 2026 This is an album by the iconic American Klezmer ensemble The KlezmaticsFind albums by this artist, which celebrates their 40th Anniversary. Founded in NY in 1986 and still featuring two founding members: trumpeter / composer Frank LondonFind albums by this artist and accordionist / guitarist / pianist Lorin SklambergFind albums by this artist, alongside longtime members: violinist Lisa GutkinFind albums by this artist, clarinetist / saxophonist / caval player Matt DarriauFind albums by this artist, bassist / tsimbl (Jewish hammered dulcimer) player Paul MorrissettFind albums by this artist and drummer / percussionist Richie BarshayFind albums by this artist. All of the ensemble members contribute also vocals in several languages, primarily Yiddish but also others. They are supported by no less that nine guest Artists, including the celebrated Jazz vocalist Janis SiegelFind albums by this artist, Jazz bassist William ParkerFind albums by this artist and a Gospel choir. The album presents twelve tracks, several original compositions by London and Sklamberg and the rest from different sources around the world. The attached booklet offers the lyrics to all the songs, both in original languages (using Latin letters in case of Yiddish, to make it easy for the goyim) and English translations. The music offers a stupendous kaleidoscope of cultural / musical sources, spanning Eastern Europe, Middle East, Balkans, Caucasus and American Folklore, spiced generously by Jazzy ornamentation, great sense of humor and a big portion of Jewish neshume (soul), which have been the Klezmatics trademark for the last four decades. The intricate arrangements and fiery performances take no prisoners and one has to be either deaf or soulless not to be deeply moved by this music, even if one has no Jewish roots, since this music is completely universal and deeply touching to every human being. Although this music is not meant specifically for Jazz lovers, a diligent Jazz loving listener will surely find many delicious Jazzy accents, including a brilliant, almost Free Jazz improvisation hiding inside. A couple of months ago I had the immense pleasure to meet Frank London in Lublin, Poland, where he performed with his ensemble as part of the Jewish Culture Lubliner Festival. It was a great opportunity to hear him perform, but more importantly to converse intimately, reminiscing about our earlier encounters, music which we love, the state of the World, in short something two old Jewish friends do, when they meet, throwing Jewish proverbs at each other. It was truly heartwarming and yet also somewhat heartbreaking, considering Frank´s health problems, which sadden me deeply. Mayn tayerer fraynd, Got zol dir gebn gezunt un koyekh, un a dank far der matone fun muzik. Overall, this is a delightful piece of music and beyond, for music lovers who are able to embrace cross-genre / cross-cultural journeys, which unite us all as human beings. It takes a very special people to create such universal musical experience, like the one this album offers, and hopefully while enjoying the music listeners will also reflect upon the state of our times.

Updated: 17/10/2026Posted: 17/10/2026

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