Gogol Bordello: A Gypsy Punk Ballroom Blitz at The Novo

Attending a Gogol Bordello show was an experience. I had always been warned that I wouldn’t be prepared for what I would witness when I finally got the chance to see Ukraine’s finest live. When I heard they were returning to Los Angeles for a completely sold out show at The Novo, I jumped at the opportunity to cover the madness alongside Evvntly.

The night was surrounded by a myriad of colors and fans from all walks of life, all eager to witness a phenomenal band known for their over the top performances, ones that also touch on deeply relevant themes like the immigrant experience. It was gypsy punk after all, so that energy felt essential.

Boris and the Joy

We started off melodic and smooth with Boris and the Joy, a duo featuring former Gogol Bordello guitarist Boris Fridrikhovich Pelekh and current drummer Korey Kingston. It could not have been more fitting for the show to kick off with a blend of past and present. Their sound was captivating and set the stage for what would follow.

Puzzled Panther

Next came Puzzled Panther, delivering a sound that fused new grunge with a post punk renaissance edge. In true gypsy punk style, the energy began to build, the lines between genres starting to blur as the night inched closer to its inevitable eruption. Joined by members of Gogol Bordello, they sent the crowd into a frenzy of dance with addictive songs like From Boyarka to Boyaca and Dirty Boots.

Gogol Bordello

Finally, Gogol Bordello took the stage. The front barricade was surrounded by jesters, six foot tall fans towering overhead, and everything in between. As singer Eugene Hütz and his gypsy punk family took the stage, the crowd erupted into dance, cheers, and a true sense of togetherness. The stage pulsed with color, accordions, and voices that might as well have echoed all the way to Ukraine.

Needless to say, I have never been a part of such a magnetic experience. While the accordions were vibrant and the rhythms captivating, the band also used the moment to reflect a sense of altruism. There was a feeling of unity, of people coming together despite skin color, immigration status, or background. With songs like Immigrant Punk, State of Shock, and Mystics, it was impossible not to move and jump, and I was no exception.

The night was also packed with surprise guests, including Tom Morello, who joined the gypsy punk greats for the fan favorite We Mean It Man. I cannot turn back from the Gogol Bordello pack now, and honestly, I would not have it any other way.

Photos by Nucorejess