Accordeon Parade 25 jaar Hoger Streven: A Folk Fiesta That’ll Tickle Your Ears
Alright, buckle up, because Accordeon Parade 25 jaar Hoger Streven by Hoger Streven is one of those albums that sneaks up on you like an overly enthusiastic accordion player at a family barbecue. Released under the Decca label and hailing from Belgium (yes, the land of waffles, chocolate, and now... accordions?), this record dives deep into the realms of Folk, World, and Country music. And let me tell ya—this isn’t your grandma’s polka playlist (well, maybe it could be).
First off, let’s talk about the vibe here. The album feels like walking through a bustling Belgian village fair where everyone’s got a drink in hand and something to celebrate. It’s lively, unpretentious, and full of charm. But don’t go thinking this is just background noise for cheese tastings—it’s got layers, folks. Layers of twangy strings, toe-tapping rhythms, and melodies that stick to your brain like syrup on pancakes.
Now, onto the tracks. With gems like “Con Sentimiento,” “Roitelet,” and “Ain’t She Sweet” (yep, they threw in a classic for kicks), there’s plenty to unpack. But two songs really stood out to me, and not just because I needed to Google how to spell their names.
Track 1: "Tommy-Polka"
Okay, so “Tommy-Polka” hits you right away with its bouncy energy. If polkas were people, this one would be the life of the party—the guy who insists on doing the worm even though he’s clearly had too much beer. This track is infectious; try listening without tapping your foot or humming along—I dare you. By the time the accordion solo kicks in, you'll feel like you’re dancing barefoot in a barn somewhere. No judgment if you actually are.
Track 2: "La Comparsita"
This one’s different but equally memorable. It starts slow, almost shy, like it’s testing the waters before diving headfirst into full-on dramatic mode. Suddenly, BAM—you’re swept away by sweeping crescendos and emotional swells. Honestly, it feels like watching a telenovela unfold, except instead of cheating spouses, it’s all about the power of melody. You’ll probably find yourself pretending to conduct an invisible orchestra while dramatically staring into space. Don’t lie—you know it’s true.
Other highlights? “Opmars” has this cheeky swagger that makes you wanna grab someone’s hand and spin ‘em around the room. Meanwhile, “Par-ci, Par Là” sounds exactly like its title suggests—a musical shrug that somehow works perfectly. Oh, and “Ain’t She Sweet”? Classic choice. Always nice to hear a familiar tune done with a fresh twist.
But here’s the thing about Accordeon Parade: it doesn’t take itself too seriously. Sure, the musicianship is tight, and the arrangements are clever, but there’s no pretense here. This album knows what it is—a joyful celebration of folk traditions with a dash of Belgian flair—and it owns it completely.
So, as I sit here reflecting on this delightful mishmash of tunes, I can’t help but wonder: why don’t more bands use accordions? Seriously, they’re criminally underrated. Maybe it’s time we bring back the squeezebox revolution. Or maybe I’ve just been listening to this album on repeat for too long. Either way, Accordeon Parade 25 jaar Hoger Streven proves that sometimes, all you need is a little accordion magic to make the world seem brighter. Now excuse me while I go learn how to play “Tommy-Polka.”
