Only one way to describe a Gogol Bordello show and the is utter chaos, now dont get me wrong that is chaos in the most fun, high energy way that all gipsy punk should be played and last night was all that and more and not only from the main act but also the opening act who were Puzzled Panther, the NYC band led by Victoria Espinoza and Kay Bontempo and this band are so much fun. I couldn’t but keep thinking about The B52s while listening to them. You know that fun feeling you get anytime you hear ”Rock Lobster” (well I do). This name dont only sound great but they also look great and give the crowd a fantastic show.
So the main act came on slightly later than what was meant to be, but the wait was worth it as it was party time from the first song and the pace just kept building and building, I’m surprised these guys can keep it going for a full set, but they do and would have gave more if the could of as Eugene Hutz said when their set had to be cut short as they ran over time, he said that if let they would and could play for hours. When I say cut short it wasnt as bad as it sounds, I think two songs had to be missed, but this took nothing away from the night as I would say the moshers, the dancers, the freaks were probably glad to get a breather and time to take a breath lol.
So how the night ended was with Eugene sat of a bass drum playing acoustic guitar playing out a few tunes. Over all what a night, what an atmosphere, what a band and what a crowd.
Go see this band folks!
Puzzled Panther photos:
Gogol Bordello photos & set-list:
Set-list:
Sacred Darling
I Would Never Wanna Be Young Again
Not a Crime
Immigrant Punk
Wonderlust King
My Companjera
Dance Rounda Fire
From Boyarka To Boyaca
Suddenly… – I Miss Carpaty
Focus Coin
Trans-Continental Hustle
Immigraniada – We Comin’ Rougher
Mishto!
Start Wearing Purple
Pala Tute
Encore:
The Song With No Name (Shane MacGowan and the Popes cover)
Alcohol
Photos & words – Ian Mc Donnell @mcgigmusic