Album Notes

VAGABOND OPERA, a unique ensemble, plays Eastern-European, klezmer-based original, jazz and belly dance music with skill, exuberance, and a gritty vagabond edge. Eric Stern, operatic tenor, accordionist, pianist, and composer leads the band (accordion and vocals, saxophone, cello, upright bass, percussion) as they play songs about thieves, Jewish weddings, Parisian tramps and the enigmatic Marlene Dietrich. Every show is a cabaret of rich musical phrasing, sparkling lyrics and indomitable stage presence.

In four years of performance in the Northwest VAGABOND OPERA has built a dedicated following, the eclecticism of its music and mastery of genres luring audiences and creating fans. The Willamette Week called VAGABOND OPERA "...a six piece of alienated classicists and romantic bohemians. Gypsy music, opera, klezmer and cabaret come-ons mingle like emigres trading aliases at an after-hours night club. It's highly cultured."