Matt Darriau (Klezmatics) and his Balkan Jazz Project

New York has a strong musical subculture with ties to both klezmer and Balkan styles, giving rise to a whole array of bands spanning different genres. Saxophonist and clarinettist Matt Darriau is one of the founding members of The Klezmatics, while in Paradox Trio he also plays Bulgarian bagpipes and the kaval flute. Jazz improvisation, connections to experimental styles and the openness so typical of New York add further dimensions to the music. Cellist Rufus Cappadocia connects ethnic roots with Black funk through his percussive approach to the strings, while Macedonian-born percussionist Seido Salifoski brings Balkan and Roma influences.

Soon after its formation in 1994, the trio expanded into a quartet but kept its original name. The fourth member was Seattle guitarist Brad Shepik, who has played with Paul Motian, Carla Bley, Charlie Haden and other jazz musicians. The group soon gained a reputation in New York clubs such as Bell Café and Knitting Factory. Paradox Trio goes far beyond the usual conventions of the genre thanks to its strong jazz background. The group has also created live accompaniment for classic silent films, including the surrealist masterpiece Un Chien Andalou by Salvador Dalí and Luis Buñuel. Paradox Trio’s latest project is a collaborative album with one of Europe’s most distinctive pianists, Bojan Z, who was born in Serbia, lives in Paris and has also previously performed at Respect Festival.

MATT DARRIAU’S PARADOX TRIO:
MATT DARRIAU – ALTO SAX, CLARINET, GAIDA, KAVAL, FLUTES
BRAD SHEPIK – ELECTRIC GUITAR
RUFUS CAPPADOCIA – ELECTRIC CELLO
SEIDO SALIFOSKI – DUMBEKS

The event is organised by Rachot Production.