Paprika – Wild, Wild East (Crackling Records, 2021)
Wild, Wild East is an excellent recording by Paprika, a UK-based band that performs vivacious Balkan music and Eastern European Gypsy sounds combined with classical music. Wild, Wild East includes original songs as well as rearranged traditional pieces from Serbia, Romania, and North Macedonia.
Paprika features virtuoso musicians from Serbia, Romania, and the UK. Interestingly, The lineup is uncommon in Balkan music with a violinist and two accordion players plus guitar, bass and percussion.
Throughout the album, the ensemble displays the talent and dazzling technique of all instrumentalists. Additionally, the interaction between the fiddle, two accordions, and guitar is truly delightful.
The lineup includes Miloš Milivojević on accordion; Živorad Nikolić on accordion; Vladimir Štrkalj on guitars, electric bass and keyboards; Rastko Rašić on drums, percussion and saz; Marko Tešić on violin; and Peter Bakaja on electric and double bass. Guests: Sarah Dawson on saxophone; and Banko Ristić on electric violin.
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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.