Polka CD Reviews by Nostradamus -- The Polka Page

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I have been reviewing and rating polka CDs since 2002. To read how I rate CDs, click here. If you're new to polka music, you might want to start with my overview of polka artists and genres. For further reading, this site also includes my thoughts on the history and marginalization of the polka, a bibliography of polka resources, links to important polka articles on the Web (both popular and scholarly), and some essential information for polka musicians. Your feedback is invited.

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	Overcooked Tyroleans (Die Knödel [Die Knoedel], Koch KOC-3-7908-2, 1995 [originally released 1993 as Verkochte Tiroler by RecRec Music]) They call

	Iz Kajkavskih Krajeva, Vol. 2 [Folk Dances and Songs from Northwestern Croatia] (Lado, BeSTMUSIC CD-6011, 1998) Lado is the official state folklore ensemble of Croatia. I love their conservatory-quality performance of folk music -- every note perfect, yet never too studied or academic. There are outstanding arrangements (track 8, "Drmeš," a dance from Posavina, is quite the tour de force), beautiful tamburitza playing, and a fine orchestra. But what stands out is the amazing choral singing, presumably from the Croatian "klapa" tradition. Liner notes don't explain anything about the songs or say what instruments were used. A- [2-8-2008] [Vendor: Heart of Croatia Gifts]

	Bulletproof Polkas (John Góra & Górale, Sunshine SNCD-130, 2007) Bulletproof Polkas is the latest CD from John Góra & Górale, who have been playing their Push-style polkas since about 1996. The album is about evenly divided between Polish songs and covers of English-language hits. "Beata z Albatrosa" is a contemporary Polish ballad, considerably punched up by John's arrangement and the hot Jeff Beck–style guitar work of Kyle C. Pacey. Familiar songs which are given the Górale polka treatment include "Buona Sera" (Louis Prima, 1949), "Kiss of Fire" (Louis Armstrong, 1955; the 1903 original was composed by Angel Villoldo), "The Letter" (The Box Tops, 1967), and even "Karma Chameleon" (a 1983 hit for Culture Club). But the best track is "I Surrender All -- Wszystko Tobie," which John has transformed from a nice 18th century American hymn (I don't know who wrote the Polish lyrics) into a polka that is also a powerful expression of faith. John provides quality vocals and fine sax work throughout. My quibbles? "I Surrender All" is needlessly repeated at the end of the album and "Run Run" is boring. On the other hand, the CD booklet contains complete lyrics. B [1-20-2008] [Available from John's website.]

A

American Polka: (Various artists, Trikont US-289) My number one favorite polka album. A truly amazing compilation, it will give you a taste of a number of polka styles including Chicago Honky, Wisconsin Dutchman, Avant Garde, Mexican Conjunto, and Nuclear Polka. Every track is to be savored and the liner notes are the best. This is the compilation I would have programmed if they hadn't thought of it first. A+ [Read Steve Terrell's review]
Real Hot Polkas: (Happy Louie & Julcia Orchestra, HA-LO Records SHL-5010) Happy Louie defies description. His "Clarinet Polka" is straight Eastern-style; "Where's Johnny?" and "Mountain Polka" are Honky; and "Peanuts" (derived from Luis Guerrero's "La Cacahuata") has a nice Mexican flavor. The CD runs only 34 minutes, but Louie -- like L'il Wally -- has a wonderful polka voice and a warmth that makes you feel like you've been invited to a party. [Rated " B" on 9-28-04. Raised to "A" on 5-5-05: Sure, there are no liner notes and it sounds like the vocals were recorded in a wash tub, but the album is so cheerful that I keep listening to it over and over.]
Wow!: (Don Cialkoszewski "The Polish Kid," [no record company or number] Don is "Mr. Excitement" in my book. Sure there's a bit too much synthesizer and the vocals are uneven, but this CD puts a smile on my face every time. The songs range from bright-sounding Slovenian to sweet Czech, with Polish and German rounding out the mix. A [1-7-05]
The Haunted House of Polka: (The Shanes, Pinorrekk Records PRCD-3405033) Brilliant alternative polka CD. One website called them "German folk-punk with polka and gypsy stylings." They've also been described as "polka-thrash" or "Hard polka." In any event, you'll hear allusions to Arthur Brown, Rednex, Those Darn Accordions, the Doors, Enigma, Love, and much more, but the final product is pure Shanes and it's a feast for the ears. There's a nuclear polka version of Piaf's "Padam Padam." There's even a tango that's . . . indescribable. Good booklet, too. A [9-28-04. Revised 10-4-04. Revised 10-11-04.]
Dutch Hop -- Music of the Germans from Russia: ("Performed by Adolph Lesser and his Polka Band and Paul Weingardt and his Polka Band," produced by Kurt E. Goldenstein) Goldenstein has given us a generous 73 minutes of music collected from old records. All the music is "Dutch Hop," i.e., in the traditional style of the Germans who emigrated to Russia in the 18th century and then to several states in the American west in the late 19th century -- most notably Colorado. The arrangements cover a pretty wide range from big band to hoedown, but it all has an appealing lilt. Some even reminds me of Scandinavian polkas. Because of the age of the recordings, the sound quality is not so good, with the result that the hammered dulcimer -- characteristic of the Dutch Hop -- can be hard to distinguish. On some songs, the accordion player does an amazing imitation of a violin. Considering the care that the producer lavished on this project, the liner notes are surprisingly poor. However, the $30 price tag is more than justified by the 294 page book that accompanies the CD (see below). A [6-29-04]
Walt Wagner and the Polka Serenaders Orchestra Present Giant Polkas Featuring Music of the Great Bands of the Connecticut Valley: (Walt Wagner and the Polka Serenaders Orchestra, Mojo Polka Records WJW-04) Some say that Wagner is an anachronism, a throwback to the sound of earlier polka bands. I say that that's his charm. Finally I can hear what those Eastern-style bands must have sounded like their heyday. Not only is the sound quality good, but the arrangements are rich and varied, and show off the breadth of Wagner's band. They can sound like Witkowski or Sturr or a straight big band. I particularly like Walt's singing on the minor key "In the Pines Polka." The album's concept is to cover songs by the prominent Connecticut Valley bands of the 1950's. I only wish the notes had made clear which song is associated with which of those bands. Otherwise, the notes are ok, crediting the musicians and songwriters. The excellent album art is uncredited, probably produced by some nameless drudge at Disk Makers. Twenty songs, 72 minutes. Best Eastern-style polka CD I've heard so far. A [5-19-04; revised 6-29-04] {See Walt Wagner's comments]
The Best of Flaco Jiménez: (Flaco Jiménez, Arhoolie CD-478) A sweet and bouncy conjunto collection. Flaco joins in duets with a variety of singers and plays button accordion throughout. He's particularly effective when teamed with Toby Torres on "Cuando Mas Tranquila" and "Un Viejo Amor." Ry Cooder makes an appearance, playing slide guitar, and Hugo Gonzales' rich and expressive voice gets a solo turn. Of sixteen tracks, one is a polka instrumental and seven are rancheras sung to a polka beat. Compiled from five other Arhoolie CDs of varying vintage so the sound quality is uneven but it's a lot of fun anyway. [3-9-04 B; raised to an A on 3-21-04 -- it's the best conjunto CD I've heard so far]
Blechschaden: (Blech and Brass Banda, SMT Records SMT-007) BBB, an Austrian brass contingent consisting of thirteen horns, one drummer, two singers and an audio engineer, has produced one of the finest polka albums I've heard. They have a brilliant yet sweet tone. Their arrangements are of symphonic quality, employing more counterpoint than one usually expects from a polka band, and totally devoid of schmaltz. The tunes are mostly Polish, but there is one outstanding doo-wop number. There is plenty of variety, including two songs with vocals. The drumming is excellent -- listen for where Reinhard Hoffman doesn't play. There is a bit too much echo for my taste and the limited liner notes are in German. A [3-2-04]
Waila GP Style (Group Papago 2001, Rock-A-Bye Records RABR-00028), Chicken Scratch (Warrior, Rock-A-Bye Records RABR-00013), and New To Your Ears (Warrior, Rock-A-Bye Records [no number]): If Lawrence Welk played "Champagne Music," this is Kentucky moonshine. At first I hated all three albums. They're loud and irritating like a drunken party when you're trying to get some sleep. But I didn't want to give up on Waila (Native American polka) without giving it a chance, so I kept playing the CDs. I began to notice a real tunefulness under the noise. Then I noticed that there were some songs that had a sensuous and sinuous quality like a shot of good Stax-Volt R&B. It turns out that those are the cumbias -- not the sweet cumbias of Mexico or Columbia, but cumbias that smack you upside the head. There are also polkas, played with all the energy and finesse of a good garage band. The rest of the repertoire consists of chotes (schottisches) and mazurkas which I found less compelling. Chicken Scratch by Warrior rates an "A" and the other two CDs get a B. All instrumental, no liner notes. [2-23-04, revised 2-24-04]
Fiolin Min -- My Violin: A Scandinavian Musical Journey: (Jonita Aadland, Accent Productions AP02-1) Aadland is great. She plays polkas, waltzes, reinlanders and a couple marches, all with verve and skill. Jerry Bravo and Butch Kresovich accompany her with admirable subtlety. But don't be fooled by the snow-covered mountains on the CD cover -- this Norwegian fiddler lives and works in Florida. A [11-3-03; revised 11-18-03]
Hardcore 2/4: (Polkacide, Dog Patch Records DOG005) Combine the Dixieland sound of the Squirrel Nut Zippers with klezmer by the Jews Brothers Band and humor from Walt Solek. Add a pinch of raunch from the Fugs, and what would you get? I have no idea. But that's the only way I can think of to describe the manic, sometimes vulgar, good-time music of Polkacide. Buy this album. A [10-19-03]
Polka Record: (LynnMarie [Rink], Squeeze Records / Rink Entertainment RE-Q0451) Outstanding! LynnMarie markets herself as a mainstream artist, but this is the best "alternative" polka album I've heard yet. Her "Cleveland, the Polka Town" is amazing. She brings new life to the hoary old "Beer Barrel Polka." Then there's "Never Ending Song of Love," which ranges from traditional polka to Western to Cher-like dance -- all seamlessly woven together. And the list goes on. LynnMarie and Charlie Kelley, her outstanding arranger, have done a dynamite job. A [8-30-03; revised 9-25-03]
KNUJ 50th Anniversary Collection: (Various artists, KNUJ-Radio One [no number]) Forty three songs from New Ulm's premier polka radio station. The sound quality is a bit weak in places, but almost every song is a gem. I loved "Oh, Loretta," a schottische by the Leon Olsen Band, Bruce Bradley's wonderfully square "Happy Wanderer Polka," the Wendingers' "How Married Are You, Mary Ann?," the fiddling on "Maple Sugar Polka" by the Marv Nissel Band (not the only song here with a touch of country), the tuba solo on Ivan Kahle's "Cradle Polka" and much, much more. No liner notes (what a shame!), but this is still an all-you-can-eat buffet for Dutchman fans. A [8-3-03]
The Time-Life Treasury of Polka: (Various artists, Time Life Music R142-06) Excellent compilation, if a bit on the square side. Almost every song is a gem: Myron Floren's "Laughing Polka," the Andrews Sisters' "Beer Barrel Polka," Jimmy Dorsey's "Helena Polka," and the list goes on. Little Joe Hernandez' sings part of "Just Because" in Spanish. Even Lawrence Welk is represented, and he sounds great. Carl Finch helped make the selections. The sound quality is good, even the stereo is mostly good. Packaging is attractive but the liner notes don't list the musicians. Just 80 minutes of music is spread across two CD's (ugh!). In spite of its faults, it's a must-have. A [6-16-03]
Ach Ja!!: (Becky & The Ivanhoe Dutchmen, Becky-05) This is one of the most enjoyable albums I've listened to in a long time, an attractive blend of traditional Dutchman instrumentation with a delightfully varied repertoire. Becky Livermore has a great voice and there is some terrific harmony singing here -- even a bit of yodeling! The arrangements are understated but excellent. The packaging is nice and the liner notes list the band members. Too bad that the songwriters are uncredited (e.g., the beautiful "When the Snow Is on the Roses." is by German composer Hans "James" Last, a former jazz bassist and one of the most successful "easy listening" bandleaders of all time). Quite a few slow songs, but I love it anyway. A [Revised 6-29-03, 11-18-03]
Call It What You Want: (die Schlauberger, Wise Guy RP-103-100) It's hip, it's German and it rocks -- think Brave Combo in lederhosen. Die Schlauberger plays some polka, some Alpine, some bubblegum and some reggae, and they do it all well. They even invited Didier Rachou to add his guitar to "Gitarrenmückl" (just as Steely Dan brought in Elliot Randall to play on "Reeling In The Years"). This CD is so good that I barely noticed that the lyrics are nearly all in German. You might think, "These guys should be opening for the Rolling Stones in Meadowlands Stadium." But I don't think the Stones would want to follow die Schlauberger on stage. Buy it, it's an "A." [revised 3-31-03, 6-29-03, 2-22-04] {Read the All Music Guide review.]
Texas Polish Roots: (Brian Marshall & His Tex-Slavic Playboys, Arhoolie CD-464) Ten tons of fun! Twenty-two mostly Polish polkas and waltzes, though one of my favorite tunes is the Czech-style "Moravia Polka" by Mark Halata. The album has a strong Texas Country-and-Western flavor (maybe that's true Tatra mountain fiddling in there, but it sure sounds like a square dance to me). I like it all, even the booklet. Thanks go to my brother-in-law, without whom I would have missed this band entirely, since they're usually booked as a "folk" act rather than as a polka band. A [2/27/03]
Grandpa's List: The Best of the Dujka Brothers, Vol. 2: (Dujka Brothers, self-published 2001) They certainly give you your money's worth: 22 songs ranging from Czech polkas to " Allá en el Rancho Grande;"from "Roll Out the Barrel" to the cowboy sound of "Strawberries, Raspberries Polka." The liner notes are adequate and make it clear that John and Mark Dujka played all the instruments (not everyone else is so candid). While the Dujka Brothers are considered a Texas-Czech act, much of the album sounds Slovenian to me, with two accordions in front and bass guitar carrying the bottom. Nevertheless, the infectious cheerfulness and quality of the arrangements, as well as the album's length and variety earn it an "A."; >On a later listening: These guys really know how to put together a set, varying songs between different styles, tempi and languages.
>8-9-05: It still holds up. The vocals are perfect and the arrangements sparkle.
Frank Yankovic and His Yanks: (Frank Yankovic and His Yanks, Soundies SCD 4106) These forty-one tracks from 1950 have a more informal feel than the other Yankovic album listed here, which makes it much more appealing. The songs range from typical polkas to a tarantella ("Butcher Boy"), from a bit of cocktail jazz to "Come Back to Sorrento." There's even a touch of kazoo. The sound is a bit weak in the treble, most likely because of the need for noise reduction in transcribing from the early recordings. The slim booklet is unusually good, listing sidemen (with pictures!), songs, composers, track length and a brief history of the band. A
(International) Golden Hits: (Li'l Wally Jagiello, Jay Jay 5019) No liner notes, too many waltzes, and only 12 songs altogether. The album could have benefited from a competent producer, but the producer would probably have made Wally sound like Frankie Yankovic so what's the point? I say: kick back, enjoy Wally's incomparable sincerity and the occasional snatches of inspired improvisation by the uncredited sidemen.
>I was somewhat disappointed when I first heard this album. I don't know what I was hoping for -- Polkacide? But I keep coming back for more Li'l Wally. It's like Mickey Katz meets Preservation Hall Jazz Band with a dash of Ferko String Band thrown in. I'm raising my rating to an A.
Irresistible You: (Lenny Golmulka and Chicago Push, Push Records CPE-9502) I keep coming back to this charming CD. While it has some of the studio sound that plagues Miskulin's Country Polkatime album, it fares better due to Gomulka's songwriting ability and great voice, as well as the interesting arrangements. Also, listen for some hints of rock and roll in the drumming. A [rev. 3/20/03]
Squeeze This!: (Those Darn Accordions!, Flying Fish FF-70627) They're not a polka band but this album is outstanding anyway and contains a couple polkas. A
Deeper Polka: (Various artists, Smithsonian Folkways CD-40140) Like "Deep Polka," a compilation of Midwestern polka from a variety of ethnic backgrounds -- but this CD is more diverse. I found the "Logger's Schottische" by Al Reko and Oren Tikkanen particularly charming. Extensive notes and the packaging is very good, too. A
>Later listening note: The more I hear Reko and Tikkanen, the more I like them, and the more I think they're crypto-klezmorim.

B

Dancing in the Dust: The Waila Festival Live!: (Various artists, Blue Bhikku Records BB-00014) In the Keil book, David Paul Winkler is quoted as saying, "I can't get enough if that 'old style,' old village styles like gorale fiddling, the minor keys, something barbaric about it. That's why I go for Chicago-style polkas; they still have some of that mountain music sound." I think old D.P. would love this CD. No prettified Jimmy Sturr orchestra here, just the rugged sounds of five Waila bands of the kind that play at all-night dances on the Tohono O'odham reservation. Mostly recorded live at the 1997 Waila Festival in Tucson, Arizona. Good sound quality and real liner notes. B+ [10-8-04. Revised 10-10-04. Rated on 11-6-04]
Versalicious: (Eddie Blazonczyk's Versatones, Bel-Aire Recordings BACD-4637) On this CD, the Versatones -- probably the most influential polka band working today -- perform songs from an amazing range of sources. I particularly liked "Jessico" (from the Kentucky Headhunters), "She's Going Up" (from Canadian Celtic-rock band Great Big Sea), and "Take My Hand" (from Louisiana's Deuce of Hearts). Other songs come from Irish songwriter Pete St. John, Barenaked Ladies, Larry Trojak, Frank Wojnarowski -- and the list goes on. Most of the singing is quite nice, though the notes don't say who sang lead on which song. Overall, I'd say that the band's sound and choice of repertoire is similar to the Polka Country Musicians. B+ [Rated B on 8-19-04; raised to B+ on 8-25-04]
Jammin' Polkas: (Steve Meisner Band, [self-published] HG-5045) Steve's got that bright Slovenian sound, like the hot glint of the sun bouncing off a chrome bumper in the middle of August. He's got a great polka voice and the lyrics are even in English. "Blue Island," written with Bob Kreiser, is an impressive original -- I think it's a polka-bolero. And the last cut, Steve's version of the Buck Owens "Where Did the Good Times Go?" is a real showstopper. I like the fact that the vocal harmonies are real, not synthesized. I like the use of sax and flute. I even like Steve's bass playing. The production and engineering are good, as was the CD conversion (the album was originally recorded in 1988). Liner notes credit the songwriters and musicians. Only 35 minutes. B+ [5-3-04; revised 7-4-04]
Highways are Happy Ways: (Peter & Paul Wendinger Band, P&P-97) Dutchman music with a sweeter sound than you find in the Brueggen bands. For rhythm, they use a piano plus high-hat in place of a banjo; there's sweet three-part harmony singing, and you'll also hear clarinet and sax. Doug Young's tuba playing is outstanding -- perhaps I noticed because it is so prominent in the mix. Since the band's two leaders both play concertina, I expected some scorching interplay between them, but it wasn't evident. "Highways are Happy Ways" is absolutely wonderful. "Sweet Nearness of You" is not up to the quality of the rest of the album. The liner notes are ok, but it would have been nice if they had mentioned that Abe Lyman composed the melody on which the "Mary Lou Polka" is based. B+ [Rated B on 4-10-03. 4-29-03: On a later listen, I think the album's great. I'm upping it to a B+.]
Here Come the Polka Heroes - Vol. 1: (Various artists, Our Heritage . . . Pass It On [Cleveland International] HER-2001) Super Slovenian-style sampler. Also includes a smattering of other styles, such as a few "Push" tunes, a cut by Brave Combo, and Johnny Krizancic's tamburitza version of "Long Live our Brothers, Long Live our Sisters." Twenty nine songs in all, running a generous 73 minutes. I like Jerry Suhar's Jimmy Durante imitation on "Good Old Fashioned Wife" as well as the singing of Christine Hibbs and Lynn Marie Rink. The liner notes are passable. B+ [3-20-03]
Shades of the Jodie Mikula Orchestra: (Jodie Mikula Orchestra, self-published 2001) Good, solid Texas Czech music. Mostly polkas, a few waltzes, a bit of country, even "El Rancho Grande." Mostly instrumentals, with a pair of very expressive trumpets carrying the lead. Where most self-produced albums are amateurish, this one is well engineered, mixed and mastered. The liner notes (including a band list!) are offset printed not output on a home computer. My only complaint is the limited dynamic range of the album -- everything is pretty much bouncy mid-tempo fare. I would have found it more satisfying if they had included, say, a quiet lullaby and a rave-up. That being said, it's a tasty album. B
>Even the design of the CD imprinting was done with care. I'm raising my rating to a B+
>3-8-03: The "Schneider" polka picks up a tiny bit of Honky-type swing towards the end -- very nice.
Early Years: ([Leroy Larson and] The Minnesota Scandinavian Ensemble, Banjar Records BR-2530CD) The first Scandinavian fiddle I heard was on a cassette my wife brought back from Minnesota called Scandinavian Fiddle Vol. 1 by the late Craig Ruble. I loved his sweet tone and the tunefulness of his repertoire. Later, when I got into polkas, I enjoyed Al Reko and Oren Tikkanen as well as the Goose Island Ramblers from Rick March's excellent Deeper Polka compilation. This summer, my wife brought brought back another recording from Minnesota: this time it was the Minnesota Scandinavian Ensemble's Early Years CD. It has the same melodious lilt that I hear in other music of the genre. Only later did I learn that Craig Ruble had played with the Ensemble (though not on this recording). Fifty-three minutes of pleasure. B [10-12-03. Raised to a B+ on 2-17-05.]

	16 Most Requested Polkas (Various artists, Columbia/CBS Records CK-45107, 1989) Sadly, the excellent The Time-Life Treasury of Polka compilation is long out of print. Sometimes you can find a copy through Amazon, otherwise consider this collection of polkas from the big band era. It has several of the same songs as Time-Life, including Bob Crosby's "Hop Scotch Polka" and Jimmy Dorsey's "Helena Polka." Frankie Yankovic, Babe Wagner, and Walt Solek are also represented. Notes are surprisingly informative. Sound quality is so-so, but it's budget-priced. B [11-25-2007] [Vendor: www.barnesandnoble.com] [Full disclosure: If you purchase the Time-Life CD using the Amazon link above, I make about 40 cents.]

	About Time Two (Two Time Polka, [self published] TTP0003CD, 2003) Jack Hurst in No Depression said, "Possibly nobody knows more about making a Saturday night worth a Sunday morning than Cajuns and Irishmen." Two Time Polka is an Irish band, solidly grounded in traditional Irish roots music, that fell in love with American Cajun, Zydeco, and Bluegrass. The result is a unique kind of good-time music. You haven't lived until you've heard their version of "Hound Dog," done with fiddles, accordion and washboard. They also cover Bill Monroe, Bob Dylan, Chuck Berry and traditional Cajun tunes. You could plausibly dance the polka to about half the album. Everything is major-label quality including the liner notes. B [8-7-2007] [Vendor: www.thelivingtradition.com]

	Let's Get Casual (The Casuals, Casual Time Records [no number], 2002) A high-energy combination of Polish- and Slovenian-style polkas, with a big nod to rock 'n' roll. The Polish tunes are fronted by strong trumpet work (uncredited . . . perhaps synthesized?) and the Slovenian tunes are led by various combinations of the band's three accordion players. About half the music is original, either written by band members or Cleveland musician "Rockin" Ray Miller. Standout songs include the doo-wop instrumental "Too Much" featuring Tom Grahek's hot sax work, the polka-rock "Falling in Love," and "Every Day is Mother's Day" (sappy, but it's good sappy). Also check out Jim Slatinsky's skillful drumming. B [7-18-07; revised 8-26-2007] [Vendor: www.cdbaby.com]

	Jaktens Tid (Finntroll, Century Media Records 8077-2, released 2001) Don't tell the kiddies that there are polkas here -- just let them enjoy the screaming vocals and the slashing guitar chords loud enough to make your ears bleed and eyeballs explode. Finntroll is a folk metal band founded in Finland in 1997. They combine the sound of Scandinavian "black metal" from the 80s with humppa, the typically Finnish polka. What makes them so interesting is that, underneath all that aggressive din, their songs are quite melodic. B [12-30-06] [Vendor: www.amazon.com]

	Golden Horns on Green Fields: Czech Polka Music from the Midwest (Various artists, Polkaland CD-638, released 2003) Agricultural Heritage & Resources, a Wisconsin cultural group, produced this compilation to celebrate the brassy Wisconsin Bohemian style of polka music, a style which I find generally "sweeter" than its Dutchman cousin. The 20 tracks, selected by noted ethnomusicologist Rick March, include Clete Bellin, Malek's Fishermen, Fritz Wilfahrt, Jerry Schneider, and Becky & the Ivanhoe Dutchmen, among others. Most of the bands are currently working in northeastern Wisconsin, though two come from as far away as Iowa. The late Romy Gosz (d. 1966) is also represented, since he's one of the historical greats in this genre. The music is outstanding, the liner notes are weak. B [11-11-06; 7-6-07: Romy Gosz's 1938 hit, "Picnic in the Woods," starts off the CD. In spite of the sound quality (probably transferred from an old 78), it really swings.] [Vendor: www.polkamart.com]

	Under the Influence (Eddie Blazonczyk's Versatones, Bel-Aire Records BACD-6170, released 2005) Excellent musicianship, vocals, arrangements, and recording make this a very enjoyable CD. The tunes are a mix of country, traditional and originals, all performed in the cheerful, country-tinged manner of their earlier Versalicious album, reviewed elsewhere on this page. Too bad that you only get 29 minutes of music for your money. B [9-19-06] [Vendor: www.jimmykpolkas.com]

	Town & Country Polkas (The International Main Street Polka Band, self-published [no catalog number], released 2005) Slovenian polkas in the Yankovic style (including Solovox and dialect songs). No surprises here, but a totally solid and professional CD. The band consists of Denny Anderson, Eric Noltkamper, David Austin, and Craig Ebel. Excellent vocals by band members and guests Joey Miskulin and Christine Hibbs. Liner notes credit all performers, recording personnel, songwriters, etc. B [9-17-06] [Vendor: www.jimmykpolkas.com]

	Minnesota All Stars: Great Accordion Performances from the Northstar State (Various artists, Rounder Records 82161-6110-2, released 2006) This is a compilation of recordings from the Rounder archives; most are pretty recent so the sound quality is good. There are polkas, waltzes, a schottis, an oberek, and a couple of reels. Hot accordion playing throughout. I love Dee Langley's "Malagueña" but who needs an accordion version of Philip Glass's "Modern Love Waltz"? The liner notes are thorough, but you have to print them yourself, so save $6.00 and buy the download instead of the CD. B [6-9-06] [Vendor: www.rounderarchives.com]

	Art of the Belorussian Dulcimer (Olga Mischula and Kermash, Arc Music EUCD-1477, released 1998) You'd think that a whole album of Belorussian hammered dulcimer (tsïmbalï) would be boring but you'd be wrong. Olga Mischula plays dulcimer like Ted Nugent plays guitar. She's backed by Kermash, a 4-piece folk group which includes bayan (Russian accordion) and jaleika (a reed instrument that sounds a bit like an oboe). They play a variety of folk dances (including five polkas), original compositions and even some Paganini! Quite sprightly. B [3-12-06] [Vendor: www.cduniverse.com]

	Total Kaos (Die Schlauberger, Wise Guy Records RP 102-100, released 1999) Not much polkaing here, but plenty of high-test alpine rock. I hear an homage to Crosby Stills and Nash in "Fürstenfeld," a touch of the Moody Blues in "Schifferlied," and some more prog rock (I love that pretentious stuff) in "Sierra Madre." I also like the salsa piano licks in "Total Kaos." Very enjoyable. The graphics need to be reconsidered, however. B [2-17-06, 3-5-06] [Vendor: www.cdbaby.com]

	Shake, Rattle and Polka! (Jimmy Sturr and his Orchestra, Rounder 11-661-6111-2, released 2005) Following up on the success of his Rock 'n' Polka CD, Jimmy Sturr returns with another album of rock 'n' roll oldies reworked as polkas. The concept is not as as fresh and novel the second time around, but it's still fun and highly listenable. Guest vocalists include Willie Nelson, Frankie Ford, and Delbert McClinton. Particularly noteworthy is Ray DeBrown's beautiful waltz arrangement of "You Belong To Me" (a doo-wop hit for The Duprees in 1962). As expected, the musicianship, production and packaging are excellent. I just hope that, next time around, Jimmy finds a Black singer (I nominate Buckwheat Zydeco or Keith Frank) to add to his roster of guest vocalists. B [1-23-06] [Vendor: www.jimmykpolkas.com]

	FPB On Tap (Fritz's Polka Band, [self-published] UPC 8-25346-98732-3, released 2005) Nobody promotes like Fritz Scherz promotes: If someone in his band passes wind, Fritz mails out a press release (other band leaders, please note). As a result, Fritz's Polka Band has had excellent coverage in their local media. But they don't just do PR, the band delivers a snappy, high-energy neo-Slovenian sound that's a pleasure to listen to (imagine Verne Meisner backed by Die Schlauberger's rhythm section). The CD even includes a music video so you can watch the band perform live. Inclusion of "The Wutch," a song condoning DWI, hurt the CD's rating. B [12-2-05] [Vendor: www.cdbaby.com] [12-27-05: Read Fritz Scherz's reply about "The Wutch."]

	The Legacy Continues (Marty Swiatek & RBO, [self published] UPC 8-25346-44052-1, released 2004) Mostly Eastern-style, at times sounding like the Dick Pillar or Ray Henry bands (who, like Marty, were also based in Connecticut). But -- wait! -- there's more. June Ingram's fiery violin playing is featured on several country-tinged polkas including the "Hoe-Down Hankette" which has an almost Dutch Hop lilt. And "Who Stole the Kishka?" features vocals by the late Walt Solek in probably his last recording. Overall, a solid and enjoyable CD. Now I wish someone would explain why the New Brass's "Honky Style Polka" sounds like a "push" arrangement. B [12-2-05] [Vendor: www.cdbaby.com]

	Polka Changed My Life Today (Rotondi, Five Star Recordings 1002CD) I first heard Rotondi on the Polka Comes to Your Haus compilation CD and was knocked out by their song "Blue Polka." I did some more digging around and found this album, recorded in 1985-1986 but not released in CD format until 2003. It's your chance to hear one of the seminal bands of New Wave Polka. Back in the day, Rotondi (named for an eccentric vegetarian author from California) could be found playing on the same bill with Brave Combo and Polkacide. The band members were a wickedly talented bunch: lead singer Tony Patellis went on to a career in theater but in Rotondi, he was a powerful and expressive vocalist. Bassist Peter Curry has backed Eddy "The Chief" Clearwater (a name that should be familiar to true EBV fans) and played in many bands including Los Straitjackets and The Halibuts. Mike Rose, who lent his classic sax chops to "She's the Lion," a Paul Lacques original with an Mbube-like groove, has played with the Ventures and done much other session work. All the music is original, written or co-written by Paul Lacques, the mad genius who put this wild bunch together. Paul has started or performed with more bands than almost any human alive today. Overall, the material ranges from manic to sweetly charming. Good liner notes by Christopher Monger. B [10-3-05] [Vendor: www.bestbuy.com] [Read more about Rotondi at CDBaby.]

	This Ain't Your Daddy's Polka (New Generation Band, Elite Music Entertainment DSF-0037) A terrific vocal quartet with a peppy sound and good variety of material. I love "A Duel with the Devil," their homage to "Devil Went Down to Georgia" as well as their cover of Louis Prima's "Che La Luna." Other songs sometimes suffer from a cheesy synthesizer and the lack of a bass player. Seventeen songs in all. B [7-8-05]

	Concertina Marathon (Jersey Polka Richie, Star Note CD-1637) Jersey Polka Richie (Florida's Richard Drongoski), backed by Jimmy Noga on drums and a bass player too embarrassed to let his name be used have recorded 29 songs inside what sounds like a cement mixer. But I like it anyway because Richie really rocks. B [7-8-05]

	Lets Kiss -- 25th Anniversary Album (Brave Combo, Dentone [no number) If Devo came back as a polka band, they'd sound like this. Ten polkas, 2 schottisches, a waltz, an oberek, and a czardas, plus real notes, credits and stories -- yum! B [6-3-05]

	Every Day's a Polka Holiday (A Touch of Chicago, Hunter Records/The Gray Room [no number]) An Arizona polka band that plays fine honky music. Their cover of Barefoot Man's "Cayman Holiday" is amazing, and "I Walk the Line" is excellent, but the liner notes are appalling. B [6-3-05]

Room for Change: (Change of Pace, Change 2655) A solid "Push" band working a vein similar to Crusade's. Standout tracks are Michael Tylinski's "Higher Power" and the "Changed Drinking Song" from The Sound of Music. Good vocals, too. B [3-11-05]
Music from Sliabh Luachra: (Jackie Daly, Green Linnet GLCD-3065) When I asked Dave Mallinson to recommend some Irish polkas, he warned me that they would be "quite different" from the type listed on this site. He was right, of course, but I'm glad I went ahead anyway. Jackie Daly, a well-known folk musician, plays solo accordion on a range of tunes including several polkas which are typical of the Sliabh Luachra region. It ain't "Kick Ass" but I like it. B [1-7-05]
Polkas United: (Walter Ostanek and Gaylord Klancnik, Ranch Recordings DSF0034) You'd think that presenting two polka bands on alternating cuts of a CD, recorded in seven studios by an army of musicians would be a recipe for disaster, but Ed Klancnik and the redoubtable Gary Rhamy have pulled it off. I particularly liked Christine Hibbs' vocals (no surprise, there) and Norm Kobal's baritone sax. A solid Slovenian-style CD. B [11-12-04. See the supplementary notes provided by Ed Klancnik.]
Dogs Playing Polka: (Big Lou's Polka Casserole, Accordion Princess Records, UPC 8-07207-02862-8) With cover art that pokes fun at the classic Cassius Marcellus Coolidge painting, what's not to love? There's a sparkling version of Flaco Jiménez's "El Guero Polkas," I enjoyed the "Cry of the Wild Goose" (though I can't get Mickey Katz's parody out of my head), and "Indifference" is a real charmer in the bal musette style of 1930s Paris. There's plenty of other excellent stuff. All in all, this CD strikes me as having more variety and fun than the Polka Casserole CD I review elsewhere; I just wish it had better liner notes. B [9-28-04. 10-4-04: Listen for several smokin' solos by pedal steel virtuoso David Phillips. Yowza! 10-10-04: revised. 11-12-04: revised.]
In Response to Exile: (Crusade, Runner Records EBC-9906) Eddie Biegaj and Crusade are traditionalists who are pushing the polka boundaries into pop and rock. On "Dream," the sound ranges from zydeco to rock 'n' roll. "Doo Wop" combines rock 'n' roll with Push-style horn work. Also notable is Randy Krajewski's charming original, "Alyno," and Eddie's powerful and moving singing on "In the Grove." I even enjoyed the uberschmaltz of "The Last Waltz." Comes with a luxurious booklet. B [9-28-04. Revised 10-10-04.] [4-27-05: I frequently hear Crusade on the Polka Jammer Network and almost always enjoy what I hear.]
The Best of Steljo: Volume One: (Various artists, Steljo Records 738) A compilation of older Chicago- and Eastern-style polkas, mostly from the 1970s. I particularly enjoyed "We Share Polka Music" by Dick Pillar, "Ballroom Polka" by Ray Henry, and Lenny Gomulka's "Polka Rockin' Weekend" (Lenny was in great voice as usual), but those aren't the only gems on the album. The liner notes are surprisingly thin -- producer Dick Pillar must know a million stories about the bands he included here, but he neglects to share them with us. At least the songwriters and timings are listed. The sound is mediocre in spite of Pillar's access to the original masters, but there's enough good music to merit a "B." [8-26-04]
3rd Generation: (Various artists, produced by Ed Klancnik and Eric Noltkamper DFS-0017, UPC 6-3965500172-0) Fifteen instrumentalists, 7 vocalists, 5 recording studios in 3 different states -- the producers have attempted to assemble an all-star band composed of younger-generation musicians. Names I recognized included Eric Noltkamper, Mike Grkman and Tom Brusky. The effort is mostly successful. I particularly enjoyed "Little Eddie's Dutch Hop," featuring John Stehle Jr's sparkling hammered dulcimer. I also think they did a great job on the "Wind Song," a beautiful waltz by Slovenian greats Slavko and Vilko Avsenik. The liner notes are surprisingly poor: they don't say who played on which cut or who engineered. Even the Avseniks' name is misspelled. In spite of a couple weak songs, I'd say it's a solid Slovenian album. B [7-4-04]
Polka Comes to Your Haus: (Various artists, Restless Records 7-72352-2) An audio snapshot of alternative polka, circa 1990. Rotondi's "Blue Polka" is outstanding and Brave Combo's "Do Something Different" is first-rate. Many other fine selections from artists such as The Wallets, The Romaniacs, Das Fürlines (fronted by the late lamented Wendy Wild) and others. The three Polkacide cuts, recorded live in 1986, are not up to the quality of the rest of the album. B [3-30-04]
> I really like this CD, except for the last three tracks, which bum me out. [5-3-04]; > Check out the smokin' bass playing of Jim Clifford on the Wallets' "Big City Polka."
The Ridgeland Dutchmen & Wisconsin's Concertina Kid Present . . . "Cashton Our Polka Town": (Gary W. Brueggen and the Ridgeland Dutchmen, [self-published, no number]) Gary is descended from a long line of Wisconsin musicians that stretches back well over a hundred years (see his website devoted to the Dutchmen-style bands of western Wisconsin). This CD has over an hour of solid Dutchman music, played by a four-piece combo. Gary's concertina playing is fluid and his voice is quite pleasant, though with a limited range. I like the fact that several foxtrots have been added to the usual mix of waltzes and polkas; there's even Gary's version of "Everybody's Somebody's Fool." Richie Yurkovich has done an outstanding engineering job in creating the illusion that each song was recorded in a single take -- if you could get perfect miking and mixing in one take. B [11-14-03; revised 11-18-03]
The Boxhounds: (Lynnmarie [Rink], Squeeze Records / Rink Entertainment RE-Q0462) Mostly, I shop around looking for different polka artists to sample, but after hearing Lynnmarie's Polka Record I had to buy another album of hers. Like Polka Record this CD features the amazing arrangements of Charlie Kelley (think Vanilla Fudge but more interesting). Particularly noteworthy are the new interpretations of "Just Because" and "That's Amore." Lynnmarie's "Norman" is nice but I think the Sue Thompson version still holds up well. B [10-19-03] [3-5-06: If you can find it, get the pressing (RE-Q0461) with "Pulled Chicken." It's like the "Chicken Dance" but with funked-up guitar and horns. Scrumptious!]
Back With a Heart: (Polka Country Musicians, self-published PCM-8413) I bought this from CD Baby (cdbaby.com), one of the great online music retailers. Wally Dombrowski's band has a bright upbeat sound, anchored by John Pilch Jr.'s energetic drumming. Effortlessly combines country-rock with push-style polkas. B [10-11-03]
Polka Casserole: (Big Lou [The Accordion Princess], Our Heritage . . . pass it on HER-2009) There's no denying the importance of Big Lou the Accordion Princess in the Nuevo-Polka movement but Polka Casserole is just not as good as Squeeze This!, her album with Those Darn Accordions. "They Call the Wind Mariah" as a polka is nice and I was glad to see Big Lou revive John D. Loudermilk's "Norman" (a hit for Sue Thompson in 1961). This CD might have gotten a better rating if it had not arrived in the same mail as LynnMarie's Polka Record but that's life. [8-30-03] B
World's Greatest Polka Band: (Bernie Witkowski, Stan-Dot Records [no number]) From what I've read, the first American polkas that didn't sound like they were imported from the old country were played by Eastern-style bands like Witkowski's. Little of that genre is presently available on CD. Witkowski, one of the first six inductees into the IPA Polka Hall of Fame, has only this one CD in print. Its 17 songs, 12 of which are polkas, feature virtuoso performances (such as Witkowski's own clarinet playing), often at breakneck speed. Particularly interesting are the minor-key "Big Shot Oberek," the "Shave and a Haircut Polka," which sounds like early Push to me, and the "Good Luck Polka," which is actually the klezmer standard "Choson Kale Mazel Tov." The bad news is that the sound quality is poor and there are no liner notes. B [3-18-03, revised 8-9-2007]
>Great tunes, interesting arrangements, bad sound. With decent notes and good sound, this would have been an "A." [3-22-03]
>Read what Gene Mikrut and Ken Doyle have to say about Bernie Witkowski. Ray Gavlak weighs in and Bernie's granddaughter Lauren Wyte.
South Texas Polka Party: 16 Polka Instrumentals: (Various artists, Arhoolie CD-9005) An outstanding conjunto compilation taken from old Ideal and Fama records. The sound quality is unexpectedly good and the sixteen songs present a broad array of conjunto artists. The bad news: the liner notes say nothing about the artists who have been included. In other words, to learn about the conjunto genre, you'll want to buy this CD and then Google up your own research or read Keith Chandler's review. That said, the variety seems better than that of the Rounder conjunto compilation I review elsewhere. B [rev. 5-27-03]
Daddy . . . Play Tina: (Brian and the Mississippi Valley Dutchmen, self published 105698.5) More of that yummy Dutchman music from the Brueggen clan. This CD is somewhat better than the Karl and the Country Dutchmen CD I review elsewhere (hey, Karl's was recorded almost a quarter century ago, when he was just 18). Here, the sound is a bit brighter, perhaps because the horns are more prominent, and the arrangements are more interesting. The variety of songs (Dixieland, music hall, "Dutch" dialect, traditional, original, etc.) keeps the interest high. B [rev. 4/2/2003, 2/22/04]
Karl and the Country Dutchmen: (Karl and the Country Dutchmen, self-published 1979) This just arrived from the nice folks at KNUJ Radio. KNUJ sells cassettes and CDs from what seems like every Midwest Dutchman band that ever recorded. Their website is broken, so call 1-800-444-5685 to order.
This album is a bit unpolished -- not surprising when you realize that Karl recorded it in 1979 when he was only 18! That said, it is quite well done. Particularly appealing is his choice of songs, most of which I haven't heard elsewhere. B
Play Me a Polka -- Tex-Czech Polkas: (Various artists, Rounder CD-6029) The title track, by the Czech Harvesters, features electric guitar, hammered dulcimer, tuba and saxophone -- what's not to love? It's a great tune, not available elsewhere. The rest of the album sounds a lot like Li'l Wally, except for the tuba carrying the bass line on some of the songs. Bubba Hernandez of Brave Combo did a fine job of selecting the songs for this compilation. On the other hand, the liner notes are barely passable. While the booklet contains pictures of the bands, it doesn't provide names of the band members, the instruments they played nor the dates of the recordings. As a result, you can't tell whether the Joe Patek number is from an ancient 78 or just a bad recording. [See what Mark Rubin has to say about this album.] B
>On a later listen, I think the selection of songs is outstanding.
Polka Passion: (Various artists, GPN 203.092) Live album produced by the Nebraska educational television network. Five songs by Eddie Blazonczyk & the Versatones, four by Karl & the Country Dutchmen, and four by the Polka Family. Maybe I'm just falling in love with Dutchman style music, but I think the songs by Karl & the Country Dutchmen are the best on this album. The band can also be heard on the Deep Polka album and similar bands can be heard on the Deeper Polka and Play Me a Polka CDs. The Polka Family's "Fiddle Faddle Polka" is a nice country-tinged number and the Versatones get to rock out on "Ukrania," a standard that I hadn't heard before. Finally, the liner notes list the names of the band members, unusual for a polka CD. B
Frankie Yankovic and His Yanks' Greatest Hits: (Frankie Yankovic, Columbia CK-9287) Lots of hits, well played (of course). No liner notes. B
Deep Polka: (Various artists, Smithsonian Folkways SFCD-40088) Contemporary midwest polka including Karl and the Country Dutchmen plus Norwegian, Czech and Finnish styles. Extensive liner notes and beautiful packaging. B
>"Bijeli slapovi" by Vatra is a delight. Sounds Greek to me. [3/9/03]
The Best of Polka: (Various artists, Polka City Records 1072-2) Two CD set, plenty of hits by most of the names in the American polka veldt. Check out Peter & Paul Wendinger's Dutchman-style "Johnny's Knocking Polka." No liner notes. Shop around for the best price. B [rev. 3-31-03]
Conjunto! -- Polkas de Oro -- Texas-Mexican Border Music Vol. 5: (Various artists, Rounder CD-6051) Very nice collection of Tex Mex instrumental polkas, though I can't yet tell one from another. Good liner notes. B
Once Upon A Polka . . .: (Praha Bros., [self-published]) The Praha Bros. is a Texas-Czech band from the Temple area in Central Texas. Their new CD, Once Upon A Polka, features excellent horn and clarinet work and I liked their uptempo numbers. But the waltzes are all played in dirge tempo and the arrangements are uninspiring. I liked the packaging, though the liner notes do not credit the songwriters. [On 8-30-03 I gave this a " C." On 9-25-03, I said "They really ought to listen to how the Wendinger Brothers make their waltzes sound light and airy. Other than that, I enjoy the album and keep coming back to it." On 11-2-03, I'm raising this to a "B" because I find myself enjoying the album more. 1-4-04: And their Mexican stuff is great! 2-2-04: Ok, so I don't like Texas waltzes, but I really like the rest of this CD!]
KCHK & KRDS Present Music From Czech Country: (Various artists, Radio Southern Minnesota [no number]) Czech and Dutchman-style songs by some lesser known bands from southern Minnesota. Uneven but pleasant. [Rated C on 10-11-03. Raised to C+ on 1-4-04 because of a couple terrific songs such as the Ben Barta Band's "North South East West." Raised to B- on 2-2-04. On 2-17-06 it made it up to B.]
Deliberate Confusion: (Freeze Dried, Chrome Pierogi Studios CP-002) Another push band trying to push (sorry) the polka envelope. Good horn section and smokin' organ by John Krawisz. Unusually strong Caribbean influence -- they cover songs by calypsonians Lord Burgess and King Radio, as well as doing a ska version of the Rolling Stones' hit "Last Time." "Floating Rock" is a standout track, up to Brave Combo standards, but their regular push tunes are uninspiring. B- [1-7-05]
Soused at the Border: (The Sauerkrauts, Apfel Records CDS-8181) This six-person San Antonio band plays mostly Mexican and German music. I like their Spanish songs. I like their novelty numbers such as Bert Kaempfert's "Spanish Eyes" sung in German. But they're not just joking around: the musicianship is sharp and the vocals are consistently top-drawer (other bands please take note). Finally, engineer Gary Trumet gives the band a quiet, understated sound that's a welcome change from the echo-heavy blast of the usual polka CD. B- [B on 1-4-04; lowered to B- on 9-20-04 because other CDs that I rated "B" were better.]
On St. John Road: (Dujka Brothers, self-published JMD-1007) As usual, the warm and rich voices of brothers John and Mark Dujka are a pleasure to listen to. This time, they've added a bit of cocktail piano in a couple places and a touch of synth elsewhere. The standout track is "Grandpa Drank Too Much at the St. John Picnic," written by Texan songwriter Daniel Klapuch. A fine CD, but I found their earlier Grandpa's List: The Best of the Dujka Brothers, Vol. 2 more exciting. B- [3-9-04] [5-3-04: I'd say the same today.]
Whoopee John CD #7: (Whoopee John, Whoopee John Music CD-#7) Dutchman music with great arrangements. John Wilfahrt's band of ten or eleven pieces was large by today's polka band standards and that size enabled him to use more complex arrangements than you hear today -- particularly in Dutchman-style bands. "I Wish I Was Single Again" is, by comparison to L'il Wally's version, cold and lifeless. The 28 tracks are mostly polkas, along with some waltzes and laendlers. No liner notes and the sound quality stinks, but I like it anyway. B- [10-19-03]
Fresh & Smoked: (The Kielbasa Kings Polka Band, Horseradish Records HRCD-002) This is a pretty ambitious bunch: their album features five originals and a cover of Elvis Costello's "Alison," the packaging is outstanding and the logo is great. They even have a snappy website. Unfortunately, the music doesn't live up to the hype. The singing is weak, the bass is boring, and the album is padded out with two live cuts. I did like the a capella opening of "Pod Mostem" and their drummer is terrific. B- [Rated "C" on 5-16-03; moved up to C+ on 9-12-04 -- they get better with time. Raise to B- on 3-11-06.

C

Mother's Hands: (Henny and the Versa J's with Ryan [Ogrodny], Jazzo 1007) Violinist Ryan Ogrodny, 12 years old when this CD was recorded, has some hot hands -- and accordionist Randy Koslosky found the perfect vehicle to show off those talents in the title track, "Mother's Hands," which the two have turned into a fiery tour de force. They worked similar magic with Mozart, turning the Rondo alla Turca (Sononta in A), into a dance bursting with passion. The rest of the CD is less interesting. C+ [1-30-05]
Polkas Y Rancheras: (Los Rancheros Del Norte, Maguey Music 4071) A mix of traditional (i.e., with bajo sexto instead of electric bass) and modern norteño. I count nine polkas, five valses rancheras (waltzes) and two ballads. Less polished but more charming than Los Tigres Del Norte. Includes some nice duet vocals. C+ [10-19-03; revised 2-22-04]
El Rey De Las Polkas: (Tony De La Rosa, Hacienda HAC-7418) De La Rosa is one of the most important post-War Mexican polka artists. His tempo is gentle and his tone is sweet. Like many other greats of the past, he's not afraid to venture beyond the traditional repertoire, covering the old minstrel "Alabama Jubilee" (here called "El Circo") and Boots Randolph's "Yakketty Sax." I only wish there were some vocals to add variety. C+ [2-22-04 C; raised to C+ on 3-21-04]
Best of Polka!: (Walter Legawiec & The Polka Kings, Eclipse Music Group 64649-2) Back in the 1970's, Legawiec was a popular New Jersey violin teacher whose students still remember him fondly. Like Polka That's All, which I reviewed before, this CD features an impeccable big band playing polkas mostly composed by Legawiec. Between the two CDs, buy this one; it has the better melodies. C [2-22-04. Revised 11-12-04. Reduced from C+ to C on 10-4-05.]

Overdrive / XV & IX: (Reissue of Overdrive by Prime Drive [1994] and XV & IX by the Dynatones [1983], Sunshine Records SNCD-147, 1996) David Klemenz urged me to try both of these albums, so when I saw that they're available in a combined double-CD, I jumped at the chance. Now I'm not sure what all the shouting was about. Prime Drive had some fine players such as Eddie Siwiec, but their brief heyday in the 1990s doesn't seem to have made a large impact. Their songs on this CD all feature fine musicianship and vocals, and the clarinets of Siwiec and Keith Habratowski are a welcome touch. The Dynatones, of course, are the legendary Buffalo polka band -- but their most legendary recording was over by 1983. Here, their push-flavored covers of L'il Wally songs add interest and the "Monopol Polka" (probably by Polish composer Władysław Powiadowski) is a charming instrumental featuring two concertinas sharing the lead. Liner notes list musicians and some of the composers. C [9-14-2007] [


	New Traditions (Jerry Grcevich [Grčević], [self-published, no catalog number], 1992) It's all tamburitza, all the time -- and it's a pleasure. Each tune features about five tamburitzas, all played by Grcevich, who also wrote all the music. Styles range from traditional to Baroque to pop and beyond. Like his father before him, Jerry is a member of the Tamburitza Association of America's Hall of Fame. No polkas, but you should buy this anyway. A [10-21-2007] [Purchased from: Jerry Grcevich, 210 Old Jacks Road, No. Huntington PA 15642]

	Concertina Hall of Fame (Ray Konkol Band, North Star Appli NSA-228, 2004) Concertina player Ray Konkol and bass horn player Cedric Solie are clearly having a blast as they play their way through a mostly traditional program of Dutchmen polkas, waltzes and laendlers. Ray has been at this for about 50 years and has been inducted into both the Wisconsin Polka Hall of Fame and the World Concertina Congress Hall of Fame. Cedric was formerly with Whoopee John. If you want to join the fun, buy the CD. A [7-21-2007; revised 7-24-2007] [Vendor: www.polkamart.com]

	Frankie Spetich Revisited with the Klancnik & Friends Band (Klancnik & Friends Band, Ranch Recordings RR0051, released 2006) Ed Klancnik has performed a bit of recording magic, isolating Frankie Spetich's original accordion performances off of a series of tapes made from 1972-80. Ed then recorded an entirely new band to accompany the Spetich tracks. The result is excellent. The band -- including Frankie -- totally rocks, with a sound I would call "neo Slovenian." If you compare these guys to a "traditional" (Yankovic-style) Slovenian polka band like the International Main Street Street Polka Band, the difference is quite clear: Klancnik and Friends have a harder, ballsier sound, anchored by the robust and inventive bass playing of Jerry Zagar. All instrumental. A [4-8-07; rev. 7-20-07] [Available from www.ranchrecordings.com]

	Most Requested Hits (Lenny Gomulka & The Chicago Push, World Renowned Sounds WRD-2803, released 1992) I bought this for the "Oh Baby Mine Polka," Lenny's cover of the 1954 Four Knights hit "I Get So Lonely" (also popular in the 1983 Statler Brothers version). But the entire CD is a pleasure, featuring the great Gomulka voice and compositions -- from "Money Can't Buy Everything," which I thought was a "traditional" tune when I first heard it on Brave Combo's Humansville album, to the honky sound of the "Don't Get Married Polka." A [1-21-07] [Vendor: www.polkas.org]

	Party Dress (Lynnmarie [Rink] & the Boxhounds, Squeeze Records / Rink Entertainment RE-Q5806, released 2006) When I first heard a pre-release version of this recording in the spring of 2006, I said, "It's a great CD and has helped convince me that LynnMarie and the Boxhounds are the best recording artists in polka today." Not only does LynnMarie have one of the best voices in polka today, not only is Charlie Kelley an inventive arranger and first class producer, but the two of them are now writing original songs every bit as good as the hits that they cover. Jimmy K says: "This is one of the most commercial-sounding recordings we've received from Lynn Marie. Lynn's vocals are solid and pleasant, the music is very polished. Not real traditional, but real good!" A [abt 3/2006; rev. 5-29-06, 7-27-06, 1-20-07] [Available through LynnMarie's website]

	Polka für die Welt (Hiss, [self-published, no catalog number] UPS 4-029758-195505, recorded 2003, released 2004) Polka für die Welt ("Polka for the World) is certainly that: you'll find polkas from Mexico, Uruguay, Romania, Germany, and Finland -- as well as American polkas "Who Stole The Keeshka" (Walt Solek), Zydeco Gris Gris (Michael Doucet), and "Get Together Polka" (Pee Wee King [Frank Kuczyncki]). The arrangements are generally characteristic of each country, with the addition of a bit of electric guitar. Performances, production and packaging are all major-label quality. My only complaint is that Wild Wilson got to this before me -- darn you, Wild Man! Liner notes are in German. A [10-29-06] [Vendor: www.abella.com]

	Out Behind the Barn (The What Cha Callums, self-published [no number], recorded January 2006, released May 2006) I love this CD! I bought it after hearing "Please Maria Don't You Cry" (a cover of the 1968 Bert Kaempfert "Sweet Maria") on www.WRJQradio.com. What makes that song so special -- along with much of the rest of the album -- are the enchanting triple-tracked vocals by Marilyn Lange. Thanks to excellent production and engineering she sounds a bit like the McGuire Sisters. Back that up with a sharp 8-piece oom-pah band and they achieve a sound unlike any other polka band I know of. A [9-17-06] [Purchased from Arvin & Marilyn Lange, 10718 Rangeline Rd., Auburndale WI 54412] [1-9-07: I love Greg Laabs' tuba on "Please Maria Don't You Cry."]

	Dick Rodgers and his T.V. Recording Orchestra CD-630 (Dick Rodgers and his T.V. Recording Orchestra, Polkaland CD-630, original LPs released 1968 and 1970) A fine Wisconsin Bohemian album from Dick Rodgers, who started the band in 1945, when he was still in high school, and led it through 1975. The songs are interesting and peppy, the 8-man band plays with skill and gusto, the arrangements are top-notch, and the stereo separation is crisp. While a more modern recording would have a fatter bass sound, the transfer to CD is very clean (Did they have access to the original tapes?). I love almost every tune, but two stand above the others: "Stop Inn Saturday Night" is a fine tribute to the polka bands that were their contemporaries, such as the Six Fats, Lawrence Duchow, Alvin Styczynski, and Don Schlies; and the "Polish Falcon Polka" totally swings. Note that five other Dick Rodgers CDs have the same title as this one -- you have to tell them apart by their album numbers! No liner notes. A [7-24-06] [Vendor: www.polkamart.com]

	A Musical Journey to Poland (Various artists, WeltWunder Records 501-2, released 1999) Young musicians from Poland explore, reinterpret, and deconstruct their musical heritage. Whether you call it neo-folk, world music, or roots music, it's breathtaking and beautiful. Grzegorz Ciechowski's great remix of traditional Polish folk singing with dance grooves reminds me of Deep Forest. "Dorokina" is a fiery take on Polish Roma (gypsy) music. Jamaican and Polish singers collaborate on the poignant "Joint Zelene," singing in both English and Polish. Kroke is a classically trained trio from Kraków who are part of a revival of Jewish music from Poland. They play a sher ("scissors dance"), which is a kind of Jewish square dance. If you know Chudoba (and you should, if you've been paying attention to my reviews), they're also represented here. Liner notes are thorough and in English. This CD is hot, hot, hot! A [6-3-06] [Vendor: www.cdbaby.com]

	Puntas de Arerunguá (Los Gauchos de Roldán, Ocho Bajos Music, UPC 7-07541-78332-3, released 2005) Hot polkas from Uruguay, played on button accordion by Walter Roldán accompanied by guitar, violin, electric bass and percussion. Sounds a bit like Vallenato (an afro-caribbean style from Colombia) or cumbia. I imagine that the Buena Vista Social Club would sound like this if they were playing polkas. A [1-28-06; revised 1-29-06] [Vendor: www.cdbaby.com]

	global.kryner (Global.Kryner, BMG 82876-60632-2) Global.Kryner presents 13 familiar tunes, ranging from "Stardust" to "Like a Virgin," all flawlessly performed in the oompa brass oberkrainer style. These six brilliant musicians from Austria have been hugely popular in Germany, playing a style that originated in Slovenia. Lyrics are in English; the lovely booklet is in German. CD was released in 2004. It's not polka, but you should buy it anyway. A [10-5-05. Revised 4-24-06] [Vendor: www.abella.com]

	Big Band Polka Swing (Walt Procanyn Orchestra, Eastwind 43) I didn't much like the previous Procancyn CD I reviewed, but I love this one. This one was arranged, orchestrated and conducted by IPA Hall-of-Famer Henry Will (Wilczynski), who also wrote half the songs. The sound is lush and extravagant (I'd call it "swing band on steroids") and features the smooth vocal stylings of The Golden Voices of the Walt Procanyn Orchestra. You'll hear polkas, straight big band, and Dixieland, all performed to perfection by a group of nameless musicians (except the drummer, who's credited). Walt contributes his usual excellent graphic design. A [10-4-05] [Vendor: www.jimmykpolkas.com]

	Champagne Galop: Polkas, Mazurkas and Waltzes of Hans Christian Lumbye (Danish National Radio Symphony Orchestra conducted by Gennady Rozhdestvensky, Chandos Records, CHAN 9209) Danish composer Hans Christian Lumbye patterned himself after Johann Strauss I, eventually becoming known as "The Strauss of the North." Lumbye's work is exciting and has an oomphy, almost Sousa-like, quality. Best classical polka CD I've heard so far. Real liner notes. A [9-10-05]

	Rock 'n' Polka (Jimmy Sturr and His Orchestra, Rounder 82161-6109-2) Polka versions of rock 'n' roll hits from the late 50s and early 60s, like "Splish Splash," "Personality," "The Wanderer," and "Hello Mary Lou," featuring guest artists such as Lee Greenwood, Duane Eddy and Willie Nelson. Alison Krauss's hauntingly beautiful vocal on "Dream Lover" transforms the old Bobby Darin tune into a touching love song. Usually I find Jimmy Sturr too bland for my taste, but I find myself dancing in my chair when this CD is playing. A [9-11-05]

	Polkas, Lullabies & Wedding Songs (Chudoba, WeltWunder 202-2) I love the full, rich neo-traditional folk sound of this CD. It's very listenable and often downright beautiful; the recording is excellent, and the performances sparkle. Chudoba (meaning "meager possessions" in Polish) was founded in the early 90s by students at the University of Wrocław. They specialize in folk tunes from Galicia and neighboring areas, reinterpreting them with an array of acoustic instruments that include Jew's harp, mandolin, guitar, violin, dulcimer and flute. Good liner notes in English. Buy this CD! A [9-10-05] [Vendor: CD Roots www.cdroots.com] [Read the review at rootsworld.com.]

	Denkste! (Polkaholix, HeiDeck HD20032) They call their music Berlin-Speed-Polka. I call it non-stop fun from an amazingly eclectic band. Their music ranges from soca to bluegrass (in the same song!), from . . . words fail me. I'll just say that they're totally amazing. I had hoped that I was the first one to discover them, but Wild Wilson and Dandy Don Hedeker beat me to it. Liner notes in both English and German. A [9-11-05] [Vendor: www.rootsmailmusic.com]

	Brizgaaaaj! (Atomik Harmonik, Menart Records 383102381842-9) Atomik Harmonik is a quartet from Slovenia (really) with a kind of Eurodance/Alpenrock sound. If Frank Farian had taught ABBA to play polkas they might have sounded like this. Check the website for cool videos featuring the bodacious charms of Špela Kleinlercher and Špela Grošelj. The CD booklet has lavish graphics and extensive notes (in Slovenian). It ain't all polkas but it's a gas. A [8-1-05. Thanks to Greg Brown for giving me the heads-up about this fun group.] [On RootsWorld, Eric Iverson calls them "Slovenian Turbo Folk."]

	Klic Ruševca (Ansambel SPEV, Zlati Zvoki ZZCD-206, 2004) This four man group from Slovenia (actually, they've added a fifth since this recording) has a bright pop sound, a bit like Oberkrainer without the horns. The vocal harmonies are impeccable, the instrumental musicianship sharp and clean. Very enjoyable. B+ (I discovered Ansambel SPEV through the Prime Time Polkas site) [12-22-2007] [Vendor: National Cleveland-Style Polka Hall of Fame]

	Piktžirnis [Piktzirnis] (Vydraga, Lietuvos radijas LRCD0036, 2004) Vydraga ("stormy woman") is a versatile Lithuanian folklore group founded in 1988. On this CD, they lovingly revive the work of forgotten folk musicians of the early 20th century. The best part is that the recording and engineering are just modern enough to be pleasing, the singing is sweet, and the fiddling is easy on the ears. Even the dūdmaišis (bagpipe) is pretty listenable. I love the a cappella singing of the dainas (Latvian and Lithuanian folksongs, some dating to pre-Christian times) such as "Par Žalių Sodų" and "Parjoj Bernelis." Nine polkas out of 24 tunes altogether. Part of the liner notes are in both English and Lithuanian, but the notes to the songs are just in Lithuanian. Way more fun than the other two Baltic CDs I've reviewed (Estonie: Airs anciens and Pāri jumtam). B+ [8-17-2007] [Vendor: www.balticshop.com]

	Polish Tunes (Jimmy Kilian and Honky Chicago, Chicago Polkas CD-1201, 2006) It's hard to find Honky CDs that don't sound like drek but, thanks to Dave Mitera of Freeze Dried, I found this one. Jimmy Kilian and guest vocalist Chet Kowalkowski are in fine singing form, Eddie Blazonczyk Jr.'s engineering adds a welcome professionalism, and Kilian's arrangements are just right, too. All vocals are in Polish but it didn't bother me one bit. No liner notes. B+ [7-8-07] [Vendor: www.jimmykpolkas.com]

	Cousin Fuzzy and His Cousins (Cousin Fuzzy and His Cousins, Polkaland CD-615, originally recorded 1950-63) Anyone who says that polka bands shouldn't be covering Country & Western songs hasn't listened to the old timers of the genre. For example, in 1954, cowboy gospel singer Stuart Hamblen released "Old Pappy Time." Among the performers who covered it was Earl J. McNellis, better known as polka bandleader Cousin Fuzzy. Earl and his band were quite popular in the Wisconsin area for about a decade. They recorded for Polkaland Records, had a TV show on Green Bay's WBAY, and regularly packed the dancehalls whenever they toured. In 1985, Cousin Fuzzy was inducted into the IPA Polka Hall of Fame and, in 2005, into the Wisconsin Polka Hall of Fame. The music on this CD, mostly performed in the Dutchman style, covers an immense range: polka standards ("Beer Barrel Polka" and "Just Because" -- itself an early country song), typical Dutchman fare ("Tanta Anna"), novelty ("Why Do Gals Wear Britches?" and "Leap Year Song"), yodeling ("Hillbilly Leprechaun"), music hall (T.W. Connor's "I Can't Change It") and even a series of rock 'n' roll instrumentals that would be right at home on the Ace Tean Beat series. While the sound quality is crummy (no bass at all), the musicianship is excellent and the variety of material is remarkable. B+ [3-24-07] [Purchased from the defunct www.polkaland.com site; try www.polkamart.com instead]

	Old Lager Polkas & Sunday Afternoon Polka Party (Gary Kuchenbecker and His Old Lager Orchestra, Polkaland Records CD-636, transferred from LPs and 45s recorded in 1977, 1980, and 1984) The Old Lager Orchestra, formed by Gary Kuchenbecker back in 1974, combines some of the smoothness of a swing band with the solid tuba bass lines you expect from a German polka outfit. Notable tunes include Harry Von Tilzer's old time "I Want a Girl" and Nacio Herb Brown's goodtime "Sunday Afternoon." All 31 tracks are upbeat and will bring a smile to your lips. The stereo separation is good and the notes fully credit all musicians. B+ [11-5-06, revised 11-10-06] [Vendor: www.polkamart.com]

	Tuba Dan Family Band (Tuba Dan Family Band, Reel to Reel Records [the one in Oshkosh WI] 01537, released 2005) Thanks to Aaron Schuelke's WRJQ radio, I've been listening to lots of cool Dutchmen (German) and Bohemian (Czech) polkas these days. One of my happy discoveries has been this CD from the Tuba Dan Family Band, a Czech outfit from south-central Wisconsin. Dan's previous band, the Polkalanders, recorded from at least 1985 to 1990 and was probably active longer than that. He's now recording with sons David and Dan Jr. (of Copper Box fame), and daughter Lila. They play a nice boppy version of the "Our Mike Polka," a tune that goes back at least to 1934 when it was recorded by the Viking Accordion Band; there's a sweet cover of the old McGuire Sisters hit "Sugartime"; "Blue Moon Turns to Gold Again" is solid Wisconsin Dixieland; and thanks to careful overdubbing, the band achieves a nice mass brass sound on the "Go To Sleep My Children Waltz." Liner notes are thin and songwriters are not credited. Altogether, a lot of fun. B+ [5-13-06] [Purchased from Tuba Dan Jerabek, W 12539 Olden Rd., Ripon WI 54971]

	Polkas and More, Volume 1 (The Don Lipovac Orchestra, [self published, no number], [no date]) I heard Don Lipovac's version of "Perle de Cristal" (a French musette tune from 1936) on the Polka Jammer Network and then tracked down this CD. It was worth the effort. The music covers the kind of range rarely attempted by today's bands: Slovenian, Polish, Latin, Greek, Austrian, French, and Dalmatian (Dalmatia is mostly in modern Croatia). For simplicity's sake, you could call the band's sound Slovenian -- both because of Don's heritage and because Don's award-winning accordion playing is featured on most of the songs. Standout tracks include "Suze Liju Plave Oci" ("Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain") and "Topkapi Waltz." Twenty-three tunes in all, taken from two albums probably recorded in the late 1970s or early 80s, Polka Feast and Playing Your Requests. The sound quality and stereo are good, but there is no booklet -- not even a cover -- just a tray liner listing the tracks. Square but yummy. B+ [1-15-06] [Vendor: www.polkas.org]

	Family Tree ("Pan" Franek [Piotrowski] & Zosia [Piotrowski] & The Polka Towners, [self-published]) It's not "Honky," it's not "Push," it's not your usual Polish band. This family outfit from Michigan features prominent violins, which gives them a sound more like folk-rock than anything else. The vocals (English and Polish) are good, the packaging is beautiful and the booklet is informative. Their "Polka Hoedown in II" (based on Cotton-Eyed Joe) is a killer. B+ [12-29-05] [2-17-2008: They also cover "sad Movies," a 1961 hit for Sue Thompson.] [Vendor: www.jimmykpolkas.com]

	Good Times Never End (Pat Zoromski and the Boys from Polonia, Redbird RBR-0403054 135503.04) By the late 1950s, the Poles of the upper Midwest had embraced the German and Czech styles of artists such as "Whoopee John" Wilfahrt and Romy Gosz. Then Honky evangelist L'il Wally Jagiello began touring the area and caused a revival of interest in Polish polka music. Today, Pat and the Boys keep Midwestern Honky alive, playing mostly familiar tunes with delightful gusto, though the highlight of this CD is their polka version of Albert Von Tilzer's 1910 "Put Your Arms Around Me Honey." Top-notch fun. B+ [5-25-05]

	Feiern ist ein Hammer (AlpenRebellen, Koch 324-636) Peppy poppy Austrian rock, perfectly performed and produced; Jerry Kasenetz and Jeffrey Katz would be proud. I first heard "A bisserl Woodstock," a takeoff on "Hey Joe," on 247polkaheaven but it took a few months to track it to this CD. Elaborate liner notes. Few polkas but plenty of happy listening here. B+ [Rated "B" on 5-25-05. Raised to "B+" on 8-1-05.] [See what Kevin, drummer for dSb (die Schlauberger) has to say.]


	Accordion Conjunto Champs (Various artists, Arhoolie CD-342, 2004) Here's another compilation drawn from the vast Arhoolie catalog. The artists, mostly from Texas, represent the Second Wave (1930s; e.g., Narciso Martínez) and Third Wave (post-War; e.g., Tony de la Rosa) periods of conjunto music. In addition to the big names, there are a few lesser known gems such as Fred Zimmerle's "Virgencita de Mi Vida." Flaco Jiménez's danzón "Juarez" is delightfully sensuous. Of the 21 songs, 7 are instrumental polkas and 3 are rancheras with a polka beat. Liner notes are pretty good, sound quality varies. B- [12-25-2007] [Vendor: www.arhoolie.com]

	Fear of Rubber Cushions (FreezeDried, Chrome Pierogi Recordings CP-003, 2006) I saw some recent videos of FreezeDried backed by the Icicles and I was intrigued by their rollicking R&B-infused sound. But this CD just doesn't capture the excitement I was hoping for. The Icicles don't appear on the most interesting songs like "Iko Iko," "Baby's in Black," and "Call Me the Breeze" and I could do without the goopy Loggins and Messina "Danny's Song." Still, the musicianship is at a high level (particularly the horn section), there are several fine original compositions and the liner notes credit all the songwriters. The CD also includes "extras" such as a cool video showing how a CD is actually burned -- but you can only view it if your computer's CD drive can play blue book multi-session discs. B- [9-3-2007] [Vendor: www.jimmykpolkas.com]

	Charmed and Dangerous (Charm City Sound, Westwood Music Group WECD-1160, released 2006) I came back to this CD after listening to Dutchmen and Bohemian polkas for a month, and was struck by how close to rock 'n' roll it sounds. Led by Mike Matousek since 1998, Charm City Sound is a very professional Push band out of Baltimore. I like their "Dance With Me," based on the Gipsy Kings' hit "Baila Me," here performed as a calypso (!); the heavy sound of "Got to Go" reminds me of Crusade; Mike Matousek's rich baritone beautifully complements "Someone Special," a rock 'n' roll ballad that you can polka to; "I Think I'm Going To Like Loving You," recorded by Buck Owens in the 70s, has a a nice peppy feel to it. On the other hand, I don't particularly like their slow numbers: "In Her Room" is 'way too serious for me and "My Coloring Book," recorded by the likes of Barbara Streisand, Dusty Springfield, Sarah Vaughn, and Aretha Franklin, was not a good selection for Charm City Sound. Stephen Kaminski has done a fine job of producing, as well as contributing the hot sax licks on "Dance Like a Musician." B- [7-27-06] [Available from www.jimmykpolkas.com]

	Playing Around with the Sound of Chad Przybylski and the Polka Rhythms (Chad Przybylski and the Polka Rhythms, North Star Appli. NSA-231, [no date]) In spite of the awful recording, uneven singing and lack of liner notes, after a couple of listens I found myself humming along to this CD. Chad did a great job of picking fifteen familiar songs for him and the Polka Rhythms to give their honky-style treatment. The standout number is their instrumental cover of the 1962 Chris Montez hit "Let's Dance." B- [2-4-06] [Vendor: www.jimmykpolkas.com]

	Fiddlin' Around Again (The Marv Nissel Band, [self-published] MN1996CD, recorded 1996) This is a family band from New Ulm, the German/Czech stronghold in Minnesota. Like many Czech bands, they have a sweet sound that I like. In addition to the usual polkas and waltzes, they effortlessly integrate a number of country tunes (their version of "Orange Blossom Special" is great), aided by daughters Lori and Jodi's fiddle playing. Marv Nissel, who formed the band in 1978, has been inducted into the World Concertina Congress Hall of Fame. Charming. B- [11-23-05] [Vendor: www.polkamart.com]

	Alex Plays Button Box . . . and Other Stuff (Alex Meixner, Euro-Class Music CD-034, 2003) Alex is a talented multi-instrumentalist (read what David Love says about Alex), currently active in about seven different ensembles and bands. On this CD, he plays almost all of the instruments, supplies most of the vocals, and wrote or co-wrote about a third of the songs. Most of the tracks have the bright, cheerful sound one expects from a Slovenian-style CD. I enjoyed pretty much all of the instrumentals (particularly "Ribniska Valley Polka" and "Hot Peppers Cumbia") though more variety in the arrangements would have been appreciated. C+ [11-30-2007] [Available from www.cdbaby.com] [12-4-2007: The "Jolly Coppersmith Polka" is also quite good.]

	On the Bright Side (Tom Brusky, Polkasound Productions PP5020, released 2003) Wisconsin polka stalwart Tom Brusky presents 18 songs, mostly Slovenian style polkas and waltzes. I particularly like "Come to the Mountain," a hit for Roger Bright, whose trademark Swiss lilt inspired several songs on this CD. Other highlights include Dan Tutsch's vocals and Gary Hendrickson's guitar on "Old Fashioned Walk" and Ron VanDenboom's singing on the "St. Bernard Waltz." In fact, Tom has assembled a crew of five excellent vocalists (himself included) for this recording. The musicianship is also superb, as is Tom's production. His choice of material, however, runs more to the schmaltz than mine does: I was ok with "Kiss an Angel Good Morning" and I could handle "When You're Smiling," but when they got to "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," I was pretty much lounged-out. C+ [10-22-06] [Purchased from Tom Brusky, 4055 S. 103rd St., Milwaukee, WI 53228-2005]

	Estonie: Airs anciens [Estonia: Olden Tunes] (Various artists, Ocora / Radio France C-600012, released 2000 [recorded 1912-1987]) Historic recordings of Estonian folk tunes, including several polkas. Traditional instruments used include the parmupill (jew's harp) and torupill (bagpipe). I prefer the more recent recordings such as "Kas maletad kevadet oites?," a lovely waltz performed by Aleksander Parkja on kannel (Estonian zither) or "Trallilugu / Savikua polka" a pair of snappy polkas played on Hiiu kannel (an unstopped bowed instument). The thorough notes are in French, Estonian and English. CD runs a generous 63 minutes. C+ [10-16-06] [Vendor: www.amazon.com]

	"Everybody's Favorites" and "Something Old, Something New, Something Modern Too" (John Check and the Wisconsin Dutchmen, North Star Appli. NSA-226, [no date]) Dr. John Check's musical career dates back to 1935, when he formed his first band in a Wisconsin high school. Over the years, he performed and recorded with both the Michigan Dutchmen (when he lived in Michigan) and the Wisconsin Dutchmen (when he moved back to Oshkosh). This CD was transferred from two LPs of uncertain vintage. The "Lhanicka Polka" is done in a pure German brass band (blasmusik) style; the fine arrangement of the "Red Raven Polka" combines a touch of marching band, a dose of big band and a neat men's chorus; Russ Mikkelson lends an excellent vocal to the 1937 Tommy Dorsey hit "Marie." Most of the ethnic tunes (ten polkas, five waltzes, two laendlers, and a schottische) are in the German or Czech style, the remaining nine tunes are pop or big band. Musicians are credited, songwriters are not. The transfer to CD is not entirely successful, as there is noticable "wow" on two slow numbers. Pleasant and well-played. C+ [5-29-06] [Vendor: www.polkamart.com]

	Dance, Dance, Dance! (The Dujka Brothers, JMD Records JMD-1008, released 2005) The arrangements are wonderfully varied, the performing and recording are sharp, and the voices warm. No surprise there -- after all, this is the Dujka Brothers. The songs have a sweetness characteristic of bands that come out of the Texas Czech tradition. I love "This Song Is for Me and You," a patriotic song written by Daniel Klapuch -- it makes me want to stand up and salute. But having listened to other Dujka CDs, I'm ready for a bit less synthesizer (maybe they could take an analog drummer into the studio for their next recording). C+ [1-14-06] [John Dujka sent me a promotional copy -- a trend that I hope catches on with other musicians! Ordering information is on their website www.dujkabrothers.com or you can purchase through www.cdbaby.com.]


	Live 'n' Kickin' (die Schlauberger, Wise Guy Records CD-105-100, 2007) The Alpenrock boys from Middle Village have come out with another sharp CD, this one recorded live during their 2006 tour. It features the group's fine four-part harmonies, as well as Tom Staab's hot fiddle and guitar playing. The sound quality is excellent, the arrangements sparkle, and everyone sounds like they're having fun. But are they really this good live? The answer is mostly yes. We got to hear them in July, 2007, in Juniper Valley Park (Queens, NY). While they didn't bring their much-vaunted Marshall stacks, they did bring all of their enthusiasm, charm and musicianship. A- [11-9-2007] [Vendor: www.cdbaby.com]

	One Step Over the Line (The Polkadellics, Reverb Records RVBCD0101, released 2002) In 2001, Richard Janik reincarnated his father's polka band, the Polkadellics, a Canadian outfit that had originally flourished from the mid-1970s to mid-80s. They have a solid "goodtime" -- almost honky -- sound that reminds me of Touch of Chicago or Pat Zoromski. "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes," "Ludzie Sa Dziwne (People Are Strange)," and the "Theme from the Little Rascals" are among their captivating polkafied covers. Their version of Focus's 1971 hit "Hocus Pocus" is quite sharp, as is "Hand Me Down World," a hit for fellow Canadians the Guess Who. "Quit Your Bitchin'" is a fine original by Richard, as is "Doctor Polka," which, if there is justice in this world, will become a standard for polka bands everywhere. I could have done without "Swingin' the Alphabet," and the "Prelude to Celebration" doesn't actually lead into "Celebration," but those are quibbles. The CD is a lot of fun, the production is professional, and the liner notes are informative. A- [12-29-06] [Vendor: www.jimmykpolkas.com]