Since 1999, Gogol Bordello has been bringing their unique fusion of punk rock and Eastern European influences to the world, including their legendary theatrical and rambunctious live shows. From its inception, Gogol Bordello has been a band of immigrants, with members hailing from Ukraine, Ecuador, Russia, and Ethiopia. With their eighth studio album and first in five years, Solidaritine, they go back to singer, Eugene Hutz’s more punk rock roots as heard on the new single “Focus Coin” While finishing up the new record, the world turned upside down for Hutz and other members as the war in Ukraine started. With his mind now on helping out his homeland, Hutz has used his influence and art to raise money and awareness. He’s collaborated with everyone from Les Claypool to Billy Strings in recent months, to putting together benefits featuring Patti Smith and more.

Belgian band Vaya con Dios released several albums for Ariola Records during the late '80s and '90s. Formed in 1986 around Dani Klein, Dirk Schoufs, and Willy Willy (Willy Lambregt), the trio combined influences from blues, jazz, and Gypsy styles. Some of their best material was collected on Best Of, released in late 1996.

A versatile singer with a warm voice and a quietly swinging style, Connie Evingson explores the usually instrumental Gypsy jazz style during this highly enjoyable project. On various selections she is joined by either Pearl Django, the Clearwater Hot Club, or the Parisota Hot Club, quartets that are sometimes augmented by accordion, vibes, drums, and/or percussion. She performs swing standards, Susannah McCorkle's lyrics to Django Reinhardt's "Nuages," and her own words to "Django's Premonition" (originally known as "Anouman"). The strong repertoire, the instrumental colors, and Evingson's voice are three reasons that Gypsy in My Soul is highly recommended.