Just bought the CD at a Krakauer Concert in Austin, Texas
Esteban Ess | Austin, TX United States | 02/08/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"It is 11:30 PM on Feb 7, 2004 and I just got home from a two and a half hour concert put on by David Krakauer and Klezmer Madness. The ensemble played in the Agudas Achim synagogue in Austin. David spoke eloquently of his visit to Krakow and the meaning it held for him. But then he began to play and his music spoke volumes beyond his words. This album tells a story and the music will challenge you as it can be a little abrasive and demanding at times, but that, I think, must be intentional. David tries to help the listener to feel, through his music, that, while there are residuals from 20th century tribulations in Krakow, there is hope for the future of freedom there. Perhaps his visit and music will help with the healing process. I will enjoy having this CD after hearing David Krakauer live. If you like Klezmer music and the minor scale with its plaintive sounds, you should like this album. Perhaps, everyone should own one Klezmer album. David is one fabulous clarinet player, not to mention saxaphone player, band leader and story teller. He encourages his musicians and guests to play solo from time to time. At tonight's concert, he invited a local bass player, an accordian player, a saxophone player, four shofer players, one of them the rabbi, and the cantor to play with his band. I am finding the same spontaneous and high energy style coming through on this album. I was amazed at the length of time David Krakauer could hold a note and at the highs and lows he was able to attain with the clarinet. If your ear is not attuned to klezmer music, this will be new to you, but it should be worth your time to sample this klezmer music."
What do I know from Klezmer music, except I like it!
jimnypivo | west of Chicago, USA | 09/27/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Being a fan of the eclectic, I find that some of the most genuine, heartfelt music comes from the international rack at the record store.
I came by this emotionally explosive and many-faceted gem while browsing in Val's Halla---a music institution in my old hometown of Oak Park, Illinois. Val recommended this, and as usual she was right on the money.
This music has a strangely-blended sound, somewhere between Middle Eastern folk and the Star Wars Tattoine bistro band. Rooted in a cultural-folk genre rich in tradition, Krakauer and his band slyly interweave jazzy elements (Klezmer a la Bechet) and rock & roll riffs for good measure.
Sometimes the music is bombastic, sexy, raw, and compelling ('Turntable Pounding'). Other times it's bright, airy, and happy, ('Gypsy Bulgar', `Sirba') Some selections are lamenting, sad, plaintive (Offering Nign ).
But mostly it is just feel good `international' music where the band whips it out and gets down ('Dusky Bulgar', `Naftule's Nussach').
One caveat: Krakauer's clarinet playing is ever-present, so you MUST enjoy the sound of the clarinet. If you do, this strange, beautiful jewel just might be right up your alley.
"
Track Listings (11) - Disc #1