AMG Review of Gypsy Beats and Balkan Bangers

Thom Jurek
All Music Guide

This Atlantic Jaxx compilation was assembled by Felix from Basement Jaxx and Russ Jones of the Future World Funk series. There are 15 cuts here on Gypsy Beats and Balkan Bangers, either in original version form or remixed. It's the originals that are the real attraction, though. "Balkan Hot Step" by N.O.H.A. is the biggest track; discovered by Gilles Peterson, it's an aboveground club hit. . Other notable cuts here include the Kocani Orkestar's "Usti, Usti Baba [Altiplano Mix]" -- tampered with by Señor Coconut -- and their theme "Mi Bori Sa Korani." Other high points include "Hora Andalusia," by Fanfare Ciocarlia, and "Bulgarian Chicks" by Balkan Beat Box. Of course Gogol Bordello are here -- it's requisite -- with "Start Wearing Purple" but it's a throwaway, as are the dub mixes of Shantel's cover of "Bucovina" and the "Brass and Bass Mix" of "Spoitoresa" by Mahala Rai Banda. Overall, there is plenty to spin and take in, and being marred by a couple of cuts near the end spoils nothing. Check it.