With a positive, upbeat groove that combines a bit of Klezmer, jazz, hip hop, rap and even some mountainous influences, David Krakauer with The Mazel Tov Cocktail Party Orchestra is a group that knows how to throw a festive musical mash bash. As you probably know, “Mazel Tov” is a Jewish phrase that expresses congratulations or good luck. As such, this Party’s vision is for a “good vibes explosion” to counter the world’s pervasive polarization and negativity.  So expect to hear some lively, spirited, danceable expressions of joy and affirmation. When a conservative pundit mistakenly referred to Molotov Cocktails as “Mazel Tov Cocktails,” this group of stellar musicians envisioned such a device lighting up the world with hope and happiness instead of being a destructive force. Krakauer’s lyrics in the title track declare, “Get unplugged, stop being afraid! Look your neighbor in the eye, and wish ‘em well. And raise a glass of a sizzling brew, to light up the world and make things new!”

It’s a very good expressive sentiment, and this optimistic world music album is best listened to for its feelings of catharsis, tolerance, encouragement and hope for humanity. The celebration is facilitated by David Krakauer (clarinet, vocals), Kathleen Tagg (keyboards, cello, accordion, electronics/samples), Sarah MK (emcee, vocals, rap), Martin Shamoonpour, Daf (Iranian frame drum, jaw harp, mouth percussion), Yoshie Fruchter (electric guitar, oud, mandolin), Jerome Harris (bass, vocals). Also featured are electronics and samples from acclaimed beat makers Bergsonist, Socalled and Jeremy Flower (aka Keepalive).

Taking traditional, old dance forms and reinventing them for today results in rewarding tracks such as “North Country Square Dance (Square Dance All Night),” “Krakky's Rainbow Polka,” “Drum and Hornpipe: Poll Ha'penny” and “Wedding on the Cyclone.”  The band captures an effervescent Latin groove with “Bella's Calypso (Bella Suit Son Coeur).” The only cut that doesn’t quite cut it is “I’m a Poor Wayfaring Stranger” that shows this band might best stick to quirky, quick-paced romps to keep the feisty fun factor at a high level.

An informal cocktail party typically lasts a few hours, and this one ends all too soon.  “The Happy Hour Crew Theme Song” exclaims that “whether it’s good evening to the west, or good morning to the east, it’s a good program ….” Grab some snacks, alcohol, mixers, ice and invite a flock of guests over to “get epic” and enjoy flowing drinks, stories, music and dancing at this Mazel Tov Cocktail Party! Clap your hands, do-si-do and allemande right to the urban beat, Krakky’s clarinet and the band’s fascinating rhythms. And when everyone shouts “Mazel Tov!” as the title cut cues up, “Toda” (meaning "Thank You") would be our appropriate response. (Joe Ross, Roots Music Report)