The Twelve Tribes proves that clarinetist extraordinaire
David Krakauer is comfortable performing in both semi-austere chamber/classical environs, and in packing a mighty punch, when called for.
Krakauer's radiant tonalities and shrewd utilization of vibrato are enhanced by his fiery dynamics.
David Krakauer's Klezmer Madness! fuses traditional Jewish klezmer music with rock, funk, modern jazz, and more. Electric guitarist Kevin O'Neill kicks off the opener, "Tribe Number Thirteen," with blistering crunch chords, ringing harmonics, and stinging leads, while accordionist
Will Holshouser joins
Krakauer in celebratory unison choruses amid notions of Jewish wedding music. The musicians also meld up-tempo shuffle beats and swaggering blues motifs into the grand scheme of things. This fun-fest is a top pick for 2002, regardless of genre. ~ Glenn Astarita