Review: Gogol Bordello – Live from Axis Mundi [CD/DVD]

Layout 1Artist: Gogol Bordello
Album: Live from Axis Mundi [CD/DVD]
Genre: Gypsy Punk
Label: SideOneDummy

Though they sound from another country, gypsy punks Gogol Bordello actually hail from New York City and therefore its only fitting the band return to their home for their first official live release, Live From Axis Mundi. Joined by a disc full of b-sides and rarities from the band, this cd/dvd set may just be one of the best buys you can find this holiday season.

Before we begin, let me preface that if you’ve never seen Gogol Bordello perform, you owe it to yourself to at least watch a trailer for this release. Regardless of your taste in music, there’s no way you can deny the sheer entertainment quality of this band. For further proof, look no further than HERE and HERE.

I think it goes without saying that b-sides/live albums are intended for a band’s already developed fan base. Rarely does one come across a new musical passion when going over the rare cuts from any act. However, the CD accompaniment to the live DVD does have some great gems to be found. For those wondering how the band sounds without the bunch of the electric sound, there’s a complete BBC sessions featuring both gems and some deep album cuts to show you he true skill of the musicians in the band. It’s funny how even when stripped of the amplification this band can still make you tap your toes and want to start a party. It really speaks volumes about how well they work their craft. Outside of this, there’s a terrific cut from the Super Taranta sessions that begs to question why it was ever left off the album and an intriguing demo cut of :Immigrant Punk:: that really gives a bare bones look into the early stages of songwriting in the band. Now, of course, these cuts don’t hold too much weight in longterm value for most, but they’re something any fan of the group should at some point hear.

Moving on, the real meat of this release come on the second disc, the live performance from the band’s old stomping ground, New York City. Over the course of 15 tracks the band seems to at least dip their toes in nearly every imaginable genre of music all while dancing, singing, clapping, drinking, shouting, playfully fighting, drinking more, telling jokes, and all around being the crazy gypsies they want us all to see them as. Before the opener, “Ultimate” even ends, I wager you will be just as sold on the band as their devout following already has become. The energy put forth by every person on stage is nearly too much to handle at times as even the multiple camera angles can barely hold the madness in frame. It’s enthralling and the addition of music videos and behind the scene footage make it a collector’s item fans won’t soon part with.

For those unfamiliar with the band, there’s obviously little to gain from purchasing Live From Axis Mundi by Gogole Bordello. However, even the least dedicated fan is sure to become enthralled with the footage the band provides on this release and the accompanying b-sides are simply icing on the cake. It’s a must for any follower of these gypsy punks and I wouldn’t be surprised if this release didn’t persuade a few more music fans to hop on the bandwagon.

Score: 8/10

James Shotwell
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6 Responses to “Review: Gogol Bordello – Live from Axis Mundi [CD/DVD]”

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