Tipsy Oxcart – Upside Down (indie release, 2015)
The musicians in American world music instrumental band Tipsy Oxcart are deeply influenced by the music of the Balkans and Eastern Europe. They create a fine mix of Gypsy, brass band, Bosnian sevdah, Klezmer, Bulgarian folk music and other Balkan sounds with powerful rock-style drums, funk and reggae.
The group’s sound revolves around three lead instruments: violin, accordion and clarinet/saxophone, supported by electric bass and drums. The multinational band includes American, Israeli and Singaporean musicians. The complete lineup includes Connell “Havuc” Thompson on clarinet and saxophone; Singaporean fiddle master Maya “the bee” Shanker; Jeremy Bloom on accordion, Ayai Tsusubery on electric bass; and Dani Danor on drums. Guests featured: Nezih Antakli on percussion; Michael Fatum on trumpet; Freddy DeBoe on baritone saxophone; Ray Mason on trombone; and Jas Walton on tenor saxophone.
“We want to share what we love. We’ve been digging deep into the Balkan style, but we love a whole range of different music styles, too,” reveals saxophone and clarinet player Connell Thompson. “By combining intricate Eastern European melodies with elements of the rock, funk, jazz and reggae we grew up with, we hope to open the minds of those who wouldn’t think to listen to this kind of music. We want as many people to hear and love it as we do.”
Tipsy Oxcart ‘s Upside Down presents a mix of stirring danceable beats from the Balkans and instrumental virtuosity. The group will take to the road this spring.
Buy Upside Down
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.