If you're wondering what all this fuss is about Klezmer music, tomorrow (Thursday) you have a chance to see two of the best acts around today - Kroke and Brave Old World.
Both bands are playing in association with the 15th International Festival of Jewish Culture, and if you're lucky, you may just be able to snatch a late ticket.
The timing of the two concerts collides, which presents something of a dilemma for Klezmer maniacs. America's Brave Old World kick off at 9pm in the sumptuous Tempel Synagogue, whilst Kroke take the stage at 10 in the cellars of hip club Alchemia. Given that both venues are within a stone's throw of each other, devoted fans will doubtless try and catch both bands, and if you can find the cash, it would be well worth it.
If you can only catch one, we'd stump for Kroke. This trio hails from Cracow, and they recently collaborated with celebrated punk violinist Nigel Kennedy. Kroke's performances are peppered with comical diversions that often border on the surreal. Gifted viola player Tomasz Kukurba leads the show, and his onstage look is something akin to a psychedelic cowboy. The music itself is quite simply phenomenal - don't miss it!
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