Bangor University plays host to a Balkan sound

Nov 4 2009

PULSATING Balkan beats will emanate from Bangor University’s Powis Hall this Friday evening November 6 as The Baghdaddies bring their wild and infectious mix of blistering Balkan brass, Middle Eastern flavours, Ska and Dance to an Eastern Night, the first of a series of Cabaret nights at the Hall.

Legends of the festival circuit and party-rocking champions of the world, the Baghdaddies are one of the best live bands around. Their sound is influenced by music from throughout the world – from the Roma wedding, brass band and gypsy music of Eastern Europe, through reggae, ska, calypso, jazz and punk rock. The Baghdaddies always maintain a truly happy and seriously danceable side to their music.

The Baghdaddies "eastern" night is the first of a series of cabarets in Powis Hall, including a blues night on October 20th with Catfish Keith and Steve eaves, a Welsh stand-up comedy night starring Tudur Owen, Eilir Jones and Beth Angell on December 4th and finishing off with a rocky Christmas party on December 18th with Derwyddon Dr. Gonzo and Carnival of the Bizzare.

The Baghdaddies have been described by The Big Issue as: "Traditional and modern dance rhythms, infectious melodies and vocals sung in any number of tongues, meshed together in a seamless cacophony of professionalism and fun. Brilliant." "The Baghdaddies play an excellent and very brassy version of Eastern Gypsy music a la Goran Bregovich and then add their own very groovy and funky style," according to the Royal Festival Hall listings magazine, while Folk Roots magazine describe the Baghdaddies as: "Riotous Balkan gipsy brass band music... big favourites on the festival circuit."

Each member of the quintet is absurdly accomplished - and they all sing too, sometimes all at once! Shades of klezmer and tango, jazz and reggae plus a touch of ska - all laced with funky dance grooves… a Baghdaddies gig promotes a healthy increase in heart rate, inducing an irresistible urge to dance uncontrollably and smile benignly on your fellow man(and woman) .

Fusion of rhythms and melodies plucked from around the world is certain to raise your spirits.

Also appearing will be Kharis with a display of the ancient eastern art of the belly-dance. The night is hosted by comedian and actor Dewi Rhys.

Doors open at 7.30pm for some middle-eastern food and drinks served in the hall.

Tickets are £10 (not including food and drink) and can be booked by phoning Dyfan Roberts on 01248 382141, by visiting Cob records, Bangor, or visiting the website www.pontio.info and following instructions to book on-line. Only 100 tickets have been issued for this night, so book early to avoid disappointment.