Search - Irith Gabriely, Colalaila :: Klezmer Fiesta

The popularity of klezmer music has erupted in Germany in recent years to now include large-scale performances by international bands as well as a thriving local scene. A little bit of both, the Germany-based Colalaila is led by Israeli-born clarinetist Irith Gabriely. Originally released in Germany in 1996, this album is just now seeing domestic release. Gabriely's playing virtuosic in it¹s even toned sound, yet she also has mastered the laughing slurs and singing vibrato that is such import part of the instrument in this style of music. She¹s well supported by accordion, bass and violin ­ violinist Barbara Witzel proves herself to also be a particularly strong soloist. The 16 tracks here are mostly reverent reinterpretations of traditionals, but the band does throw in a few curve balls: Chick Corea's "La Fiesta," Frederic Chopin's "Nigun Frederic" and a bizarre techno version of "Hava Nagilia." Conventional highlights include the manic "Old Klezmer Band" and "Old Rumanski & Sher." ­ --Tad Hendrickson