KRUZENSHTERN & PAROHOD

Kruzenshtern & Parohod biography
Not RIO in the classical meaning of the word, but certainly non-mainstream, experimental, and Avant-garde in sound and approach, this Israeli group (created in 2002 and accompanied by guest musicians) is delivering a mélange of kleyzmer, jazz and hardcore with multiple rhythm changes and breaks and restless cheerful intensity. The term klezmercore has been used to describe their music. Essentially they are a trio of clarinet, bass and drums with occasional vocals/ramblings.
Mike Patton and John Zorn are two names that pop into mind while listening to their music. Some other bands mentioned as being similar in spirit are Primus, The Melvins, Ne Zhdali. And of course there is the use of clarinet to produce the sound of kleyzmer music.
So imagine what comes out of a combination of accordion, clarinet, balalaika, bass and some high pitch mumblings.
It is a kind of music that can be too much at times especially given the type of vocals used by Igor, which are high pitched ramblings. But overall the music is original and cheerful and makes for an enjoyable listening time.
Those familiar with the Radical Jewish cd's on the Tzadik label would probably have an easier time getting into this, but it is more cheerful than most albums there.
This will appeal to those into Masada and people who like this sort of crazy free-form playing style.
Songs is produced by Udi Koomran of Ahvak, a quite different Israeli RIO outfit which has had Dave Kerman join in their ranks as well.
The core team is:
. Igor Krutogolov: bass balalaika, voice, toy accordion, noise
. Ruslan Gross: clarinet, bass clarinet, voice
. Guy Schechter: drums, voice
. Olga Yelenskaya, accordion
Both albums The Craft Of Primitive Klezmer and Songs are accompanied by booklets with original drawings by Igor Krutogolov.




Why this artist must be listed in www.progarchives.com :
Approved by the ZART. This group plays music that is non-mainstream, experimental, and Avant-garde in sound and approach, pften called klezmercore due to their mixture of kleyzmer, jazz and hardcore.




Discography:
Songs, LP 2004
The Craft Of The Primitive Klezmer, LP 2003
Live In Karaganda, Live 2004