Gogol Bordello’s latest venture, “Trans Continental Hustle,” is a breakneck-paced punk record that is plagued by repetitiveness. But who listens to punk for diversity of sound anyway? Following the successful formula “write the same song every time,” created by the Ramones, “Transcontinental Hustle” brings the noise – the same noise – for 13 songs.

The band calls its music “gypsy punk,” which is punk music played with accordions, exotic percussion and a whole lot of musicians. Not to mention dancers. With song names such as “Rebellious Love” and “Immigraniada,” the music paints a picture of a traveling band of gypsies, celebrating music and life.

Music like this cries out to be heard live. As do many jam bands, Gogol Bordello probably released this record so they can tour. The energy is pulsating, the cymbals are crashing and every vocal is yelled out to high heavens.


Contact this reporter: alexis.villa@thepantheronline.com