Nu Med

International sound fusionists Balkan Beat Box work more of their energetic, hybrid magic on their sophomore release, NU MED. There are plenty of Eastern European influences here, sure, but it's the elements of hip-hop, funk, electronica, R&B, reggae, and traditional brass-band sounds that makes the album a nonstop joy-ride of rhythmic and melodic surprises. By creating party music that blends every style under the sun, Balkan Beat Box makes the powerful, evergreen political statement that universal brotherhood is only as far away as one's ability to keep an open mind while grooving.