Schmaltz & Pepper
Self-Released, 2025
9/10
A Toronto outfit who know their way around a jazz, chamber and Klezmer influenced tune, Schmaltz & Pepper treat us to 11 meticulous tracks for this debut.
The playful bass of “Stirring The Pot” opens the listen, where Eric Abramovitz’s clarinet acrobatics make an impression, and “Mozart The Mensch” follows with Rebekah Wolkstein’s elegant violin adding much beauty to the cautious climate.
Landing in the middle, “I’m Sorry Mama” uses Wolkstein’s vivid storytelling alongside Jeremy Ledbetter’s bouncy keys, while “The Yiddish Bullfighters” showcases swift strings, lively keys and complicated clarinet for the rhythmic album highlight.
Deeper still, “Hershel And The Goblins” benefits from Michael Herring’s frisky, plucked bass via much eloquence, and “King Solomon’s Judgment” exits with emotion and rich instrumentation that’s intricate and mesmerizing.
An excellent starting point for the young band, each member contributes their own distinct talents, where traditional Yiddish sounds are tweaked with soulful and unique songwriting that’s globally embraceable.
Travels well with: Foaie Verde- Phoenix: Balkans And Beyond; Siach HaSadeh- Hapam Yilaveh