Browsing the CDs in the 'World Music' section of my local independent music store I came across the intriguing "Albanian Wedding: Brass Explosion" by a band called Fanfara Tirana. So delighted was I with the cover picture of a pompom-ed slipper and the back cover shot of the band in their finery that I bought the CD immediately. Reading the cover notes I discovered that the band is something of a novelty because, while brass instruments are not unknown in traditional Albanian music, there has never been the tradition of brass bands such as this. Although the band members are all serious and (very talented) musicians, they decided to form a brass ...  Read the complete review

Fanfara Tirana are relative newbies on the music scene, at least when it comes to recorded work. Their first album "Albanian Wedding" was released in 2007. It brings a new sound to the world music genre, chaotic when it comes to the brass section and slightly more oriental occasionally, the vocals are deeper, shorter and more intense. Fanfare Tirana sought the help of Hysni Zela who came out of retirement to team up with them to add his amazing voice to an already excellent instrumental band. The music is best described as fiery and for anyone who has been to Albania, the hooting of the brass section is surely influenced by the constant tooting ...  Read the complete review