"In a world where music seems too often scripted and rehearsed, Gogol Bordello’s unique brand of “Pure Vida” cut against the grain of traditional pop culture and transported their fans back to simpler time where the music itself was all that mattered.  And in the chaotic world in which we all seem to live, taking a small break to escape the madness was just what the Doctor ordered."

Gogol Bordello may be one of the most kick-ass (and possibly underappreciated) bands touring the states this year.  Inspired by gypsy music and infused with punk and dub undertones, this talented group of wanderers from Manhattan’s Lower East Side have released countless albums, played in hundreds of countries, and inspired thousands of acts around the world to follow their dreams – all while staying true to their original mission.  As founder and frontman Eugene Hütz so eloquently puts it, “Gogol Bordello’s task is to provoke audience out of post-modern aesthetic swamp onto a neo-optimistic communal movement to new sources of authentic energy.”  Eugene’s take on their music is spot on and truly defines their unorthodox sound and spirit which ultimately makes this band so special.

On November 17th, Gogol Bordello set up camp in Southern California for night of musical mayhem that challenged the mind and inspired the soul. Whether you were a long-time follower of their movement or just started listening to their music, there was something for everyone who attended Thursday evenings show at The Observatory OC.  Kicking off the evenings festivities was a cool local band called One Less Zero.  Sara Wright's energy was infectious and easily fired up the Orange County crowd with a groovy sound and positive vibe that kicked some serious ass.  This band is solid and definitely a "must-see" band when they are back in the area after this tour.  After a short break, Gogol Bordello took the stage and immediately spun the near-capacity crowd into hyper-drive with their first tracks of the night, "Art of Life" and "Never Young".  These were in my opinion the perfect songs to kick off the show and set the stage for an amazing night of music down in the OC.  Next up was "Not a Crime" off of their 2005 album, Gypsy Punks: Underdog World Strike.  Probably one of my favorite Gogol Bordello songs and took energy levels to a whole new level at the venue.  Within seconds, crowd surfers were up and a mosh pit had formed on the Observatory's tightly packed floor.  It was pure unadulterated pandemonium and the fans loved every minute of it.  For the next 2 hours,  Eugene Hütz and company absolutely killed it with twenty more classic Gogol Bordello songs that spanned their entire discography (including a few new tracks yet to be released).   Throughout the show, Gogol Bordello's amazing chemistry was showcased by an unbelievable group of musicians including the ever-talented Boris, Pasha, Fredo, Sergey, Thomas, Pamela, Vanessa, and Pedro.  I am sure it's not easy to pull off a show like this with so much talent on stage at any given time, but this group pulls it off and does so in fine fashion.  Gogol Bordello wrapped up their magical set with two classics, "Alcohol" and "Baro Foro", which put the perfect bow on an incredible night of music at The Observatory.

Seeing Gogol Bordello live was an event not to be missed, and definitely lived up to all of my expectations. If you were one of the lucky ones that came out to see them Thursday evening, you undoubtedly walked away drenched in sweat  after a night of non-stop partying with over a thousand of your closest friends.  Those in attendance were treated to an incredible stage show (including accordions and violins), amazing musicians (9 to be exact), and a evening of pure mayhem from one of the most intoxicating live bands I have seen all year.  Eugene Hütz and company gave it their all for their legions of loyal fans and ensured everyone in attendance got exactly what they came for.  And from the smiles on plastered on everyone's face as the show came to an end, this was definitely the case. In a world where music seems too often scripted and rehearsed, Gogol Bordello’s unique brand of “Pure Vida” cut against the grain of traditional pop culture and transported their fans back to simpler time where the music itself was all that mattered.  And in the chaotic world in which we all seem to live, taking a small break to escape the madness was just what the Doctor ordered.

For tickets to Gogol Bordello’s final shows of 2016, please visit click here. As you would expect, they are going fast and most shows are expected to sell-out soon.  Get yours tickets today and be part of the madness that is Gogol Bordello.

Stay Frosty and Rock On!