by Shaun Brady
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jazz/world
Back in the heyday of the big bands, jazz groups were the party bands: Those innovative large ensembles could play for a roomful of dancers or a polite concert hall with nary a change in repertoire. But jazz has become increasingly intellectualized over the years, and the heady stuff gets played to tiny rooms with stock-still, deathly silent onlookers. Enter Balkan music, a perfect solution for musicians who still want to flex their chops but need to blow off some steam at the same time. Slavic Soul Party has thrived on the New York scene, and lately we've had our own West Philadelphia Orchestra. Paradox Trio has been thriving for more than 12 years, and bring a more intense, Downtown-jazz edge to their Balkan and gypsy and klezmer excursions. The quartet (I know, I know), led by saxophonist Matt Darriau and featuring guitarist Brad Shepik, will be joined by Serb-French pianist Bojan Zulfikarpasic.Sun., Sept. 21, 8 p.m., $12, International House, 3701 Chestnut St., 866-468-7619, arsnovaworkshop.com.



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