Bohemian Betyars

Bohemian Betyars

Bohemian Betyars is a Hungarian group active since 2009. It forms in Miskolc, where the original lineup comes together around singer Szűcs Levente and electric guitarist Mihályfi Máté after an evening of drinking and playing music by the roadside.

Line-up and formation

The band begins as a six-piece. Alongside Szűcs Levente and Mihályfi Máté, the group includes violinist Palágyi Máté, saxophonist Czégé Balázs, double bass player Fehér Gábor, and drummer Botár Richárd. The name is chosen after several other ideas are considered, including Bukake Party, Manouch Cuci, Super Taranta, and Panel Palinka.

Style and influences

The group blends the folk and folk-dance background of the violin and double bass players with the rock and alternative approach of the other members. Its sound also draws on punk, ska, and Romani/Balkan folk music elements. The band also plays its own songs at concerts, along with covers of Gogol Bordello and songs associated with Goran Bregović and Kistehén Tánczenekar.

Live approach

Bohemian Betyars is associated with energetic, fast-moving performances. The band describes its audience as joining in the physical intensity of the shows, with the crowd and band members often ending up in the pit after performances.