Kočani Orkestar

Kočani Orkestar is a powerhouse Romani brass band hailing from the town of Kočani in North Macedonia. Known for their electrifying blend of Balkan brass, Turkish rhythms, and funk-infused improvisation, the group is led by trumpet maestro Naat Veliov. Their music is deeply rooted in the traditional sounds of the Roma diaspora, yet it often ventures into global grooves, making them favorites at world music festivals around the globe.

The band gained international attention through their appearance on the critically acclaimed soundtrack for the film "Time of the Gypsies" (though they did not perform on the original 1988 score by Goran Bregović, they were part of the follow-up project "Time of the Gypsies/Karmen" with Emir Kusturica). Kočani Orkestar’s albums, like "Gypsy Mambo," "The Ravished Bride," and "Alone At My Wedding," showcase their ability to pack rich emotion and virtuosic energy into every track. With raucous horns, driving percussion, and infectious melodies, they’ve become one of the quintessential ambassadors of Balkan brass music.