Taraf de Hadouks and Kocani Orkestar, two of the most emblematic Balkan Gypsy bands, have joined forces to create this impressive, 26-piece orchestra: Band of Gypsies. It's an irresistibly festive extravaganza which sees the Taraf's fiery violins, cimbalums and accordions interacting with the mighty brass and percussion of Koani Orkestar in entirely new repertoire combining music from all over the Balkans and Turkey. Started in 1991 in the small Romanian village of Clejani, Taraf de Hadouks (band of honourable brigands) is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year with this ambitious project: a kind of Balkan big band, in which the 13 Taraf musicians and singers are joined by the 13 members of Macedonia's Koani Orkestar. Twenty years on Taraf de Hadouks has seen a generational change of lineup. Three of the oldest members have passed away, the "young guard" has reached middle age and the group now includes no less than four young musicians, sons of four of the band members. Koani Orkestar has also rejuvenated itself in a spectacular way during the past two years, with the arrival of several brilliant musicians who are in their twenties. The name of this collaborative ensemble, Band Of Gypsies, is a reference to Taraf de Hadouks milestone 2001 album, which included three tracks in collaboration with Koani Orkestar. This time the plan is more ambitious: all of the music has been written and arranged for the 26-piece orchestra and it explores the contrasts between the two bands' rich, respective textures.