Record Reviews

AMSTERDAM KLEZMER BAND ~ DIASPORA ASPHALT TANGO 9526 (Barcode: 4015698723014) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz-Klezmer Fusion Recorded: 2025 Released: 2026 This is the 19th album by the Dutch Klezmer ensemble Amsterdam Klezmer BandFind albums by this artist, formed in 1996 by saxophonist Job ChajesFind albums by this artist, and also includes clarinetist Janfie van StrienFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Gijs LeveltFind albums by this artist, trombonist Joop van der LindenFind albums by this artist, accordionist Ellen van VlietFind albums by this artist, bassist / banjoist Jasper de BeerFind albums by this artist and drummer Mischa PorteFind albums by this artist. The album presents thirteen tracks, seven of which are original compositions by the ensemble members, three are traditional tunes, two are by the American Klezmer composer Abe SchwartzFind albums by this artist and finally one is by American Jazz / Klezmer musician and comedian Mickey KatzFind albums by this artist. The AKB (as they are often referred to) are one of the most prominent Klezmer ensembles in the world, playing a fascinating amalgam of traditional Jewish Music, Klezmer Music, but also Romani and Balkan music, strongly spiced by Jazz accents. The septet’s non-traditional lineup and musical attitude brings them closer to Balkan brass ensembles than classic Klezmer ensembles, and their repertoire expands often into Jazz oriented stylistics. Overall, this is a splendid, as usual, album, wonderfully performed and conceived, which is full of great music and uplifting joy, which in these gloomy times is a true “matone”.

Updated: 17/04/2026Posted: 17/04/2026

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