Klezmania back on stage
KLEZMANIA is set to return to the stage for its first full-length concert since the tragic passing of accordionist David Breytman last year. The announcement comes following the success of the group's third studio album Shmoozin, which was released in 2008, but not heavily promoted due Breytman's death after an 18-month battle with cancer.
ADAM KAMIEN
KLEZMANIA is set to return to the stage for its first full-length concert since the tragic passing of accordionist David Breytman last year.
The announcement comes following the success of the group’s third studio album Shmoozin, which was released in 2008, but not heavily promoted due Breytman’s death after an 18-month battle with cancer.
The band had originally intended Shmoozin to be a live recording, but when Breytman’s condition worsened, it was decided that a more mellow, if uncharacteristic, sound would be more therapeutic for the ailing musician. Initially given just months to live, Breytman defied his prognosis, going on to record the album and even perform the songs on stage.
Klezmania will unveil new member Eugene Belenko at the upcoming concerts, the first of which will take place in Melbourne on Saturday night.
Singer Freydi Mrocki said that while she is excited at the prospect of performing live again, it would be difficult without Breytman, describing him as a master of the bayan.
“It will be fantastic to perform our first full gig for the Boite [performing arts venue],” Mrocki told The AJN.
“We have performed in that little cafe in Fitzroy countless times. It’s one of our favourite venues.”
Mrocki also says that while the new line-up has resulted in a fresh approach, fans can still expect to hear their favourites.
“The CD was reflective of a certain time and place and our performance now has to reflect the new instrumentation that we have, so that’s certainly different. People have liked our up-tempo stuff and we’re just re-working that because they want to hear that still.”
Klezmania will perform at the Mark St Hall on Saturday, July 11, at 8pm and at the Glen Eira Arts Complex as part of the Winter Music Series on Sunday, August 9, at 2.30pm. Enquiries: www.klezmania.com.au.
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