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Kočani Orkestar is a renowned Balkan brass band hailing from the city of Kočani in the Republic of Macedonia. Founded by trumpet player Naat Veliov, the group has experienced numerous line-up changes over the years while maintaining the vibrant spirit of its early days. After Naat Veliov and his brothers departed, the ensemble has been led by a new member who contributes with alto sax and vocals. The band's musical style is known as Romska Orientalna Musika, or 'Oriental Gypsy music,' and features a rich blend of influences. This includes traditional dance music from Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia, as well as Turkish/Bulgarian rhythms characterized by asymmetrical time signatures such as 7/8 and 9/8. Additionally, elements of rumba, salsa, and even Indian film music are incorporated into their sound. Reflecting the multicultural and multilingual essence of the Balkans, their lyrics are sung in Macedonian, Romani, and a Turkish dialect used by the Gypsy community of Kočani.

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