Mahala Rai Banda September 24, 2010

This sensational band from the Gypsy ghetto of Bucharest combines a staple Romanian diet of violins and accordions with a horn section consisting of army brass band veterans, powered by a funky rhythm section. Formed by two people closely related to the Taraf de Haidouks (violonist/arranger Aurel Ionita and Taraf musical director Stephane Karo), their music evokes so many traditions familiar to American immigrants - a reference to New Orleans music is as palpable as the Eastern European traditions obvious to the group. Latin American immigrants can also relate to the rhythmic, festive feel.