Gipsy Groove at our Manifesta 14 opening
ROMAMoMA Library is delighted to host Gipsy Groove at the National Library of Kosovo. Gipsy Groove performs with a distinctive style, which combines Balkan Roma roots with funk, jazz, reggae, and ska. Their music is harmonically adventurous and defies traditional classifications of genre. At the same time, their mission is to raise awareness about issues of inequality, freedom of movement, racism, women’s rights, and human rights.
In their most recent single, “Feel the Roots”, the clarinet and saxophone evoke traditional Balkan melodies, while the vocals and rhythm section infuse the music with funky, danceable energy. “Do You Want”, from their 2015 album, Balkan Mania, features a full brass section, drawing connections with Roma brass band music, ubiquitous in the Balkans. Surprisingly, this piece also includes Reggae influences, showcasing Gipsy Groove’s truly unique style.
Their music paints a picture of modern life in Kosovo and the Balkans, and demonstrates the rich diversity of music performed by the Roma. Their productions are full of enthusiasm and rich with musical expression. We could not be happier to welcome Gipsy Groove to the ROMAMoMA stage!
The project is implemented within the framework of Manifesta 14 Western Balkans project, and is co-funded by the European Union.
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