linnaea's Full Review: Taraf de Haidouks by Taraf De Haidouks
I first heard Taraf de Haidouks (Band of Brigands) when I saw them perform live at a travelling gypsy music show. This concert showcased gypsy music from all the countries gypsies live in, from their roots in India, to Russia, Romania (where Taraf de Haidouks is from), Bulgaria, and Spain. Out of all the great music I heard that night, Taraf de Haidouks was the standout act. They played with such energy and passion, and the music was so relentless in its assault on my senses, I knew I had to own some of their music.
So the next day I bought this CD. I have to say I was a little disappointed because after having seen them perform live, the recorded CD was tame by comparison. Additionally, in the concert the cymbalum (a unique instrument like a drum machine but plays metallic-sounding notes, not drum beats--sort of like an electric xylophone) was very prevalent, but in the recording, it gets toned down and lost in the mix.
However, I still like this CD a lot. I love the energy of the music and the heartfelt words from a people who have suffered so much persecution and prejudice over the years, but still find so much to live and rejoice for.
You can also see Taraf de Haidouks in the film "Latcho Drom", a fascinating film that traces gypsy life through their music via different countries, starting in India and moving through Turkey, Egypt, Romania, France, and Spain, among others. This movie is also highly recommended
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