To coincide with today's essay on Gypsy music by Robert Christgau, Audiofile thought it would be fun to offer some audio accompaniment. Take a listen to the following songs and song samples from artists featured in the piece -- featuring both traditional and nontraditional approaches to Gypsy music -- and lose yourself in the swirling rhythms, exotic melodies and exuberant emotion. Then go back and read Christgau's piece for commentary on the artists you've just heard. Or better yet, listen and read simultaneously for a total Gypsy music immersion. You may be gadje (non-Gypsy), but that shouldn't stop you from loving this music anyway.
"The Return of the Magic Horses," Taraf de Haïdouks
"Catar O Birto Mai Opre," Taraf de Haïdouks
"Gypsy Part of Town," Gogol Bordello
"Vjerin Cocek," Hungry March Band
"Dvokja," Kal
-- David Marchese
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