I have written two previous posts about Gogol Bordello over the last couple of days. They played two nights here in their home base of NYC. The following notes I scribbled this afternoon while waiting to meet a friend:
Gogol Bordello is absolutely fucking great. There was not much different between the two nights. This shows how skilled they are at filling their performances with an energy and spirit that seem offhand and reckless and spontaneous. They’re quite clearly very talented performers who have created a dazzling and dynamic stage show.
The unique qualities each of the band members brings to the sum experience makes this one of the best bands around. Their musicianship is first-rate. The choreography is frenetic and tight. None of this would matter a bit if they did not have songs and a message that are top drawer. Their shows would be an empty exercise in showmanship if they didn’t bring something authentic and important to the stage.
What distinguishes them from other bands with “energetic” stage shows is what they have to say. Credit goes to Eugene Hutz for having something to say and knowing how to say it. His songs are more philosophical than political. His mantra of “Party” isn’t glib or superficial. He admonishes us to rejoice, to celebrate, to lift our voices and hands in unison, to sing with one heart and as one world.
Hutz possesses a unique charisma. He is a born showman. He is Loki and the Riddler and the Id and Caliban and the spirit and heart of the world. He is why gravity exists. Without it, he would launch into space.
I promise to shelve the Gogol Bordello talk for a while. I have been in heaven since their new record SUPER TARANTA! came out on 10 July, and the two shows this weekend at Irving Plaza have put me into orbit.
I have a bunch of photos up on my Flicker account, but for now, I’ll give it a rest.
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