Seekers And Finders, the new album by Gypsy punk-rockers Gogol Bordello, does not break new ground for the band. While that’s not really a problem for a group that long ago found their niche, it means the album is unlikely to attract the floating punter.
In truth, Gogol Bordello are best experienced live. When the band is performing in front of you, with all of their Parliament/Funkadelic-style explosions of energy, the full force of their talent is tremendous.
On their albums, it’s a different story. Songs like the quirky ‘Saboteur Blues’ and the title track would be great live, but feel strangely anaemic on record. Other songs that would seem out of place at a punk concert – like the softer, string-driven ‘Clearvoyance’ – are fantastic on record.
Gogol Bordello are undoubtedly a talented and dedicated band with a fun approach. This, however, might not be the best entry point for curious listeners.