Kleztory - Arrival (2014)

Since its inception, KLEZTORY has wandered happily through the heart of klezmer, the traditional music of the Jewish communities of Eastern Europe. It is a style which, although deeply rooted in the Jewish tradition, has always evolved through its contact with the myriad of neighbouring ethnic communities

While remaining respectful of the rich klezmer tradition, KLEZTORY has always taken the liberty of adding its own personality to its arrangements of the traditional repertoire, infusing them with hints of jazz, a touch of classical, or a few drops of the blues. What emerges gives KLEZTORY a colour, a texture and an emotional depth that is refreshing and original.

On this new album, KLEZTORY decided to broaden its horizons even further and started to venture just outside the traditional klezmer repertoire. The arrival of Quebec accordionist Melanie Bergeron and Alexandru Sura of Moldova with his cimbalum has refreshed and inspired Kleztory. Alexandru also brought his vast experience in the Bessarabian repertoire. Bessarabian music, having been strongly inspired by Jewish music, contains some of the original seeds of klezmer, thereby enriching the group’s musical palette.

As a result “Arrival” features a wonderful mix of traditional klezmer pieces, Moldovian, Bessarabian and Serbian tunes, as well as a sprinkling of original compositions. And all of it is arranged Kleztory-style, with the inspiration and the love that has built Kleztory’s reputation as a thrilling mix of sensitivity and virtuosity.