Balkanology Vol.1
Compiled by Toby2shoes
The Balkanology parties, with Dj Toby2shoes, started in Cape Town as small, occasional electro-Balkan-gypsy dances. In the two years since their inception, they have gathered a following of thousands (the last party in April saw two and a half thousand tickets sold). Capetonians love a celebration and these parties fit in perfectly with their love of eccentricity – styled as Eastern European gypsy camps with caravans, bales of hay, tents with tarot and palm-readers, goats, chickens and pigs, Balkanology is an opportunity to dress up and go wild.
The music, however, is what really drives the revelry. Traditional Balkan gypsy folk mixed with electronic beats is the simplest description, and the result is irresistible, compulsive celebration music. “A wild, heaving mass” is how the BBC’s Garth Cartwright described German audiences’ reaction when DJ Shantel began adding Balkan Brass breaks to his techno set back in the late 90’s. Since then, the electro-Balkan scene has exploded. DJ Toby2shoes, a pioneer of alternative music in general in South Africa, has become the ambassador for Balkan-gypsy-folk.
His choice of tracks for the Balkanology album consolidates his reputation as a highly skilled, innovative Dj in general, and for this music in particular. The 14-track compilation includes many of the most popular names in the genre – DJ Click, Balkan Beat Box, !Deladap, Kocani Orkestar – and three tracks mixed by DJ Shantel, who won a BBC World Music Award for clubbing music in 2006.
The final track on the album, ‘Bolujemja’ gives an African twist to Balkan beats. It was recorded in Cape Town for the Balkanology album by a collaboration of well-known local musicians. Called ‘The Kolo Novo Movie Band’, they include Kyla-Rose, Grada Djeri, Sylvestre Kabbassidi, Brydon Bolton, Sigrun and Simon Annet.
One movement of music from the first to the last track, Balkanology is a dance delight that easily does justice to this wildly popular genre. As celebration music handed down through generations, it is a modern reflection of timeless tradition. And as a completely unique, fresh genre, it’s possibly the most irresistible dance music you’ve ever heard.
