Taraf de Haïdouks, which translates to "Band of Brigands," is a celebrated ensemble hailing from the small Romanian village of Clejani, known for their electrifying interpretation of Roma (Gypsy) music. Their group dates back to the late 1980s when Belgian musicologist and producer Stéphane Karo was captivated by their sound while traveling. He helped bring them to international attention, and since then, Taraf de Haïdouks has been widely acclaimed for their virtuosic musicianship and their passionate preservation and innovation upon traditional Eastern European folk sounds.

Their rich discography is a testament to the ensemble's versatility and enduring appeal. One of their outstanding releases is "Band of Gypsies", which captures the group's dynamic live energy and intricate play between strings and accordion, marrying rapid melodies with heartfelt laments. Their music reverberates with the history and experiences of the Romani people, encompassing a spectrum from joyous celebrations to soulful dirges. The collective's "Maskarada" demonstrated their ability to transcend boundaries, reinterpreting classical works with a distinctive Haidouk flair. As recipients of the prestigious WOMEX (World Music Expo) Award for World Music, Taraf de Haïdouks continues to be a defining voice in Roma music and a vibrant live act admired by world music enthusiasts across the globe.

Genres

Balkan Brass

Muzica Lautareasca

Related Artists

Csókolom

Slonovski Bal

Fanfare Ciocarlia

Bratsch

Fanfara Tirana

Amsterdam Klezmer Band

Loyko

Latest Release

Of Lovers, Gamblers & Parachute Skirts

Taraf de Haïdouks

Album - 14 Tracks - Released March 17, 2015