Vranjski San

Well, here's something a little different -- an American Balkan brass band. Inspired by all the wonderful brass players and groups to have emerged from the Balkans, West Coast-based Brass Menazeri have done their research well. They're a tight little outfit on this, their second release, even if they don't pack the explosive punch that characterizes those from Mitteleuropa. That said, they have a lot going for them, with some excellent charts and a great female singer in Briget Boyle, who brings a great deal to this party. Their own compositions (and a few covers) sit well alongside the traditional material, which is pulled from all over the region. Probably dynamic live, they feel a little constrained in the studio.