Serbia’s No. 1 Roma violinist and UK accordionist perform high-energy original Roma/Jazz influenced music with an international quartet.
Branko Ristic, described by BBC Radio 3 as a violinist ‘whom Paganini would be proud of’ has joined with Faith Ristic - a UK performer who’s ‘nimble accordion playing provides a beautiful bedrock’ (The Guardian).
From a foundation of ‘Serbian-Roma’ music, they have created a style that draws from both of their musical heritages and expresses their unique personal connection.
Recent highlights include The Royal Festival Hall, Kustendorf Film Festival & Edinburgh Festival; WOMEX award winning album ‘Gypsy Lover’ - produced by Emir Kusturica/ Nicholas Hooper is 11th in the European World Music Charts; radio play includes BBC Radio 3 Heritage Tracks.
Faith and Branko Ristic form the core of their high-energy live performance, combining the accordion, violin, effects pedal and tabor pipe to take the audience on a journey from melancholy Roma violin laments to storming ‘kolos’ and explorations into jazz improvisation, swing, Gypsy Rumba and Turkish and Indian influenced violin solos.
These styles form a set, which – for the majority – is joyous, passionate, boisterous, fiery and spirited.
Visit their web site.
“Musically, it’s a delight” - The Guardian
“One of my favourite new Balkan ensembles” Emir Kusturica
“Moving, breath-taking and virtuosic” - Lopa Kothari, BBC Radio 3
“Branko is set to become one of the leading Roma Violinists of the century” – Froots, UK
“Totally Amazing” - Lily Allen
“Quite remarkable musicians” - Stephen Fry, BBC World Service
“Great musicians with a fascinating stage presence” - Alex James, Blur
