Supplied – Carlos DelgadoHailing from New York City, seven-piece band gypsy punk band Gogol Bordello continues to entertain crowds 15 years later with their encapsulating, enigmatic, Eastern-European inspired songs and vivid stage production.
Celebrating an eclectic variety of songs from their debut Vio-La Intruder in 1999, to their latest album, Pura Vida Conspiracy in 2013, Gogol Bordello’s rich musicianship, dancing beats and infallible charisma and humor were colourfully present at the Shaw Conference Centre. Ukraine-born, eccentric genius Eugene Hutz continues to rein magnificently as the main vocalist and guitarist: donning a silk, pot-leaf embellished housecoat and gripping a bottle of red wine. His performance was high energy and engaging and his voice was zany and powerful over the lush wave of live gypsy-style instrumentation.
Hutz is backed up by an incredibly extensive and talented band that gives life to their stage presence and sound. Violinist Sergey Ryabtsey was quit-witted and explosive on his violin, engaging often with people in the audience and members on stage. Yuri Lemenshev was fantastic on accordion, branching off occasionally for thoughtful, yet unpredictable solos.
The concert was concluded with a three-song encore, finishing finally with vigorous and catchy anthems, Wonderlust King and American Wedding, from Super Tantara. The crowd was overly receptive throughout the concert, but this last song unleashed a new level of jumping, singing, and dancing comradery. The band ran to each side of the stage to connect directly with the audience, who were eagerly waiting; throughout the concert Gogol Bordello was genuinely grateful for the audience, pausing often in between songs to talk to fans and thank them for their continued support.
Although it was snowing outside, Gogol Bordello brought warm, energetic sounds to Edmonton, enriching the crowd with exuberance and whimsicality. Gogol Bordello will never cease to put on an incredible, theatrical, engaging live performance.
