Carlama Orkestar

The Serbian word Carlama refers to a certain kind of wild dance as well as to a exuberant party. This description fits this energetic group, that was started by Yugoslav Hungarian Akos Laki, like a glove.

The musicians combine the rich Serbian brassband tradition with rhythms and melodies from all over the Balkan region, resulting in a steaming mix in which improvisation plays an important part.

The group has an extraordinary line-up. In addition to percussion almost the whole saxophone family is present: from soprano saxophone to the relatively rare bass saxophone. The result resembles a surprising cross between Fanfare Ciocarlia and the World Saxophone Quartet. Hunting rhythms, furious trills, blazing ballads and a good sense of humour are the main ingredients in this group.

Audio (radio recordings) and video from a live concert (March 22, 2008 at the Bimhuis Amsterdam) is available at:
http://vprojazzlive.radio6.nl/2008/03/16/bimhuis-jazz-live-barana-trio-carlama-orkestar/#more-87
Carlama starts at the end of the second hour and plays all of the third hour.

Carlama Orkestar can also be seen on Youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RifgDUsf8LE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqUpk4-nZGM&NR=1