Beyond the Pale

Since their formation in 1998, Beyond the Pale has emerged as one of the most exciting ensembles in the klezmer, folk, and world music scenes.

Rooted firmly in the spirit and forms of klezmer music, the group flirts with elements of other eastern-European folk styles (Romanian, Roma, Balkan), as well as modern and North American styles (bluegrass, reggae, funk), to forge a unique contemporary sound.

Known both for inventive arrangements of traditional material and for compelling original compositions, their music has been described as “post-modern klezmer in all the best senses” and “an altogether original mix”.

Their debut CD Routes (2001, Borealis Records) has received rave reviews throughout North America and was nominated by the Canadian Independent Music Awards for World Album of the Year, 2001.

The group features Eric Stein (mandolin, cimbalom), Martin van de Ven (clarinet), Bogdan Djukic (violin), Milos Popovic (accordion), Bret Higgins (bass).