From Both Ends of the Earth

Based in Toronto, From Both Ends of the Earth fuses klezmer traditions with jazz and R&B elements. Pianist Marilyn Lerner, saxophonist/clarinetist Sasha Boychouk, and bassist/banjo player Daniel Koulack established the ensemble, which later added vocalist David Wall of Flying Bulgar Klezmer Band and percussionist Rick Shadrach Lazar of Montuno Police. Rooted in traditional Ukrainian and Yiddish sources, the group writes original material that weaves in contemporary forms without losing its klezmer core. The band’s debut album appeared in July 1999, and the ensuing summer brought its first tour through folk festivals across Canada.