Chaje Shukarije - 5150

Amazon.com Don't expect subtlety from the Macedonian "Queen of the Gypsies," Esma Redzepova. Do expect intensely dramatic versions of Balkan, Greek, and Turkish gypsy songs that will char the paint right off your walls. Going full tilt every moment, Esma is right at home in wailing brass and reeds provided by the virtuoso Teodosievska Ensemble with a guest turn from trumpeter Frank London of the Klezmatics. While the sizzling arrangements stay close to the traditional vein, they're modern in the sense of delivering dazzling dynamics and providing ample space for microtonal sax and clarinet solos. In fact, the ensemble gets a couple of all-instrumental songs here, and they are richly deserved. Separating Esma from melodramatic pop divas is her earned right to speak for Eastern Europe's persecuted Roma minority, not to mention her incredibly rich vocal chops. In addition to bluesy sevda tracks, there's bone-jarring fun to be had as well. With its snare-drum sizzle, pulsing electric bass, and London's soulful organ, "Nasvali So Ujum" invents gypsy funk as Esma whoops, spirals, and climbs the listener's spine to the accompaniment of an icy trumpet and clanging guitar chords. The title cut marries wild belly-dance percussion with a spoken tag-line refrain that humorously brings in the various band members while lending free rein to the diva's incredible range. --Bob Tarte
ASIN: B00005NGX1
VSKU: GGV.B00005NGX1.LN
Condition: Like New
Author/Artist:Esma
Binding: Audio CD