Just across from the Irem Temple Mosque in Wilkes Barre PA, Fishtank Ensemble tore down the gables of the First United Methodist Church, now known as the Chicory House, with its blend of Gypsy, Klemzer, Balkan, Flamenco, and Hot Jazz.

This event, which was part of the Arts Youniverse Chicory House Concert Series, was a true treat for Northeastern Pennsylvania. For not only are such styles highly uncommon in the barren lifeless music scene of NEPA, but it was also the first time the Fishtank Ensemble has made it to the east coast of the United States. And they did a unbelievably fantastic job. As a fan from the start, I can say I truly was not let down.

For those of you who don’t know, the Fishtank Ensemble describes themselves as Cross-Pollinated Gypsy Music. What does this mean? Well simply, as stated above, they blend many styles within a album/performance and even with in songs. This go as far as blending the gypsy style violin playing of Fabrice Martinez, with the flamenco style guitar of Douglas Smolens (aka el douje), and the multi-language operatic singing of Ursula Knudson; all filled out by the rhythmic thrashings of upright bassist Djordje Stijepovi, and other world musicians for higher, which at one time included a Shamisen player from Estradasphere.

They truly are amazing, as was this particular show. Can not wait for them to return, and sad I will be unable to make the Williamsport, PA show. If you are in that area though, you must check them out.