Master of Klezmer Music: Russian Sher

These fourteen acoustic recordings of klezmer music were recorded between 1917 and 1921. Kandel was a Ukranian clarinetist who settled in Philadelphia and, as bandleader, recorded over 90 performances. His core group was comprised of clarinet, cornet, trombone, piano, drums, and xylophone. The energy and joy of classic klezmer music -- equal parts Eastern exotica and primitive jazz -- weaves and bobs through these performances, simultaneously festive and martial (Kandel's stint with John Phillip Sousa left a mark on his arrangements). Such titles as "Lebedik Un Freylekh (Lively and Happy)" and "Khosn Kale Mazel Tov (Congratulations, Bride and Groom)" suggest the mood here.