Beyond the Pale - Routes - [CD]

An exciting new sound based in klezmer and eastern European folk music from Borealis Records. Beyond the Pale's debut CD, "Routes" is an exciting and unique set of 12 recordings which will surprise and delight listeners of all ages and tastes. The originals recorded here range from rousing klezmer- and Roumanian-influenced compositions "Icebreaker", "Agnia", "Grebenyas", "Sirbish") to more daring hybrids touching on reggae ("ChasenJah"), roots music ("Eavesdropping"), Balkan music ("Bulcharescu"), and high-powered acoustic funk ("Gyration"). In their unique interpretations of Yiddish vocal music the group has unearthed some little-known gems ("Vander Ich Mir Lustig", "Vodka"), recorded here for the first time by a contemporary klezmer ensemble and delivered with humour and poignance. Even in their more orthodox moments ("Roumanian Fantasy", "Doina and Honga") the group punctuates their deep understanding of the elegance and mystery in traditional klezmer melodies with a refined sense of their own musical identity. Destined to become a classic of the revival and continuing evolution of klezmer music, Routes heralds the arrival of a significant new presence in the Canadian klezmer, folk and world music scenes.

REVIEW

Born of tradition but living in the here and now, Beyond the Pale gives "Routes" music a whole new meaning. -- Canadian Musician

Playing is pristine yet passionate as the quintet plunges into the deep mysteries of this music. -- Toronto Star, August 25, 2001

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Though rooted firmly in the spirit and forms of klezmer and eastern European folk music, the group draws on a wide-range of influences to forge a captivating contemporary sound, suffused by the past but bubbling with the present. Attempting to take their listeners beyond the pale of expectation, the group's original compositions and unique arrangements of traditional material stretch the boundaries of genre and style.

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