We are proud to present high-octane klezmer act Tantz as they celebrate the release of their brand new single. With support from local legends Don Kipper and international journeymen Shishko (Turbans) it promises to be a huge night of live music at North London's new live music hub, Balabam.
Leeds-based bohemians Tantz have taken the UK world/roots music scene apart with their full-on musical attack on audiences across the length and breadth of this nation. With awesome musical chops, an energy not seen since punk rock's halcyon days and ability to turn a gentle world music festival crowd into a heaving, pogoing mosh-pit, there's something special about this band that manages to touch almost everyone who hears and sees them live, no matter what music they're into.
A Tantz gig is not just a gig, it's a party, with every show rocking like it's their last, with up to 90 minutes of pure musical maelstrom that encompasses thumping bass lines, frenetic violin fiddling, in-yer-face drums and percussion, ska-punk chopped guitar and stratospheric soaring clarinet solos played so fast Charlie Parker would be proud of them.
They describe their sound "frenzied hyper klezmer", which gives you an idea but doesn't even come close. BBC Radio Leeds Introducing presenter Alan Raw did a better job saying "prepare to dance till it nearly does you in".
Their new single 'Meshugge' - literally 'crazy' in yiddish - is exactly that. In just 3 minutes, Tantz have captured the thing they do best of all, by creating the definite impression that the world is about to end. Arran Kent's flair for the clarinet is apparent as he wails over the band with a sound which mixes frightening purity with just a little dirt, while the band strike just the right balance of tightness and raw musical energy. 3 minutes later, you are left a sweaty mess wondering what in the world happened to your hat and shoes. We want to hear the album! Come and hear it live!
A music video is rumoured to be on the way.
DON KIPPER
Don Kipper are a multi award-winning 7-piece ensemble playing a wide range of traditional musical forms reflecting the cultural diversity of North East London, from Turkish and Greek Folk Musics to Romani music and Klezmer. Attempting to root themselves deeply in the traditions that surround us, we also like to bring these musical cultures together in innovative, exciting, and unusual ways that mirror London’s vibrant, cosmopolitan energy. They are as happy taking an intimate audience on a musical journey through Europe as they are taking their feet on a frantic journey around the dancefloor, at home both on large outdoor stages playing to a crowd of ecstatic dancers, and in sweaty tents getting the throng jumping.
Since 2013, they have released our two albums, been featured on BBC Introducing and the BBC World Service, played two European Tours, and won the titles of both the Moshe Beregovski Award for best Klezmer Newcomers and World Music Network’s Battle of the Bands. If you like the Amsterdam Klezmer Band, Taraf De Haïdouks, or Balkan Beat Box you’ll love Don Kipper!
SHISHKO DISCO
Shishko was born in the spring of 2014 in the foothill's of the Himalayan Mountains. Founded by Oshan Mahony and Moshe Zehavi, the latter is the main composer/ arranger and leader for the project as he collaborates with fellow musicians accross the globe to create a unique, unforgettable sound.
Shishko is a traveling collective with a revolving line up according to the location, members include artists from France, America, Israel, Germany, Spain, and Russia. The diverse musical expression within Shishko spans the world touching notes of Contemporary, Balkan, Turkish, Arabic, Latin, Rock, and Funk. Its an energetic, animated and theatrical show that entices their audience to move.