Described as a klezmer punk folk dance album, Geoff Berner's Klezmer Mongrels is the follow-up to Whiskey Rabbi and Wedding Dance of the Widow Bride, making it the third and final installment of his klezmer-inspired series.
Not up to date on your klezmer? Think eastern Europe Jewish folk – part fiddle, part percussion and a whole lot of accordion. Now, I don't know a whole lot about this genre, but I'm pretty sure Berner is doing something right.
The songs are extremely catchy and I found myself singing along after one listen. With repetitive choruses I had an almost uncontrollable urge to start a circle dance. The comedic lyrics talk of whiskey, and of weed. Most notably one song, "Half German Girlfriend": "The Nazi and the Orthodox Jew / Would both be disgusted if they knew / About the dirty things we do / On that they would agree."
Who knew the accordion could be so addictive. If Berner and I had our way, it would be goodbye Guitar Hero, shalom Accordion Hero.