New Year's Eve is a time for most of us to reflect on what has just passed and look forward to what will come in the new year. For some of us, its a time to party. In a way, no band is better for both pastimes than Gogol Bordello. When they played the 9:30 Club in Washington, DC this new year's eve, TWY2 went to check it out.
The evening started with a blazing set by Washington DC natives Trouble Funk. They brought their style of 80s funk to the 9:30 stage and did a great job getting the crowd pumped for authentic Gypsy Punk, maybe a little too excited. Before the main act even got to the stage, concert-goers were already drinking heavy. When Gogol came on, the crowd went crazy, as usual. The normal energetic but friendly vibe at GB shows gave way to crazy dances and a few threats of physical violence. The band, however, was in great form. Starting out with oldies like "Not a Crime" and "Wonderlust King," Gogol quickly got the mosh pits going. Then the set list got heavy on songs from their new CD, which by our count was one of the best of 2010. "Trans-Continental Hustle," "Immigraniada," and "Break the Spell" show that the collective have only gotten tighter. Then came the miraculous "American Wedding" which was done a capella. "Start Wearing Purple" was given a long intro, which included the title of the song sung in the native languages of the band members, Russian, Spanish, and Chinese just to name a few. The encore included a cover of Johnny Cash's "Ghost Riders," and the closing medley which is one of the best parts of any GB show.
Gogol Bordello has been around for over a decade, and are still gaining in popularity. Frontman Eugene Hutz brings his manic guitar playing and revolutionary lyrics to a sound that blends traditional eastern European klezmer music with western punk. The new CD is produced by Rick Rubin, and with stints at festivals such as Bonnaroo and Coachella, the legend of the live shows has continued to grow. They have been touring the world for years, and if they come to a town near you, be sure to check them out!
Great review of a wonderful group. Makes me want to order tickets for the next concert, where ever it is! I need to contact whoever runs the Ark to get them in there. You have quite a talent for critiquing this stuff. All is know is, gee, that's good. Glad you enjoyed this. I will check them out, they've been at the Palace and places around, but I'm so old, all that is hard. Sounds like its worth it, though. Take care and have fun!
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