Album Review- Gogol Bordello- SOLIDARITINE

I’ve been a big Gogol Bordello fan since the beginning. Like ordering the first two records from Rubric back in 02. Like the Pogues, the energy (and sheer surprise) of the first two records were harnessed enough for more mainstream accessible records that are high watermarks- 2005s Gypsy Punks and 2007s Super Taranta. I would suggest (unlike maybe some of their contemporaries) the band really hasn’t made a bad record. Of course, with time, like any band, I am not sure any of the last three records are essential. Of those three, the last one, 2017s Seekers and Finders- a self produced record after two records with big name producers- Rick Rubin and Andrew Scheps (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Adele, Metallica, Audioslave)- is perhaps, given the bands strength as a live act, no surprise the best. It would not be a shock that current events would inspire a punk band from Ukraine to make a great record. Solidaritine is that record. Perhaps Gogol Bordello is best when treated as a punk act. Steve Albini had seemingly got it right on Gypsy Punks and Solidartine pairs the band with producer Walter Schriefels known for his stints in Youth of Today, Gorilla Biscuits and Quicksand. That connection is deepened by a cover of Fugazi’s “Blueprint” and “The End of the End of Eras” adds Bad Brains vocalist HR with nods to “Sailin On” Yet even on these songs, it sounds like Gogol Bordello, not some kind of musical makeover forcing them into a sound they don’t fit. Of note, other guest stars are Ukrainian poet Serihy Zhadan and Ukrainian pop band KAZKA. Interestingly, these moments may be the best of the album, when the punk moments meet more anthemic sounds. Solidartine is a nice surprise. A high point for a punk band 20 plus years into making music (surely tough for any punk band even when it’s the Ramones, Bad Religion or DOA or whoever).