Slavic Soul Party bills itself as the "No. 1 brass band for Balkan-soul-gypsy-funk." While the competition may be a bit thin in this niche genre, there is no argument about the validity of the tag. The band, made up of members of varying backgrounds from the U.S. and Japan, introduces the brash-but-intricate horn lines of the Balkans and adds some New Orleans grit and groove to the stew. On the Brooklyn-based group"s third album, one can"t help but marvel at the ensemble playing of knotty horn lines on tunes by leader Matt Moran (the percolating "Ruchenista!" stands out) or Slavic traditionals like the sadly romantic "Djelem Djelem," which features guest vocalist Eva Salina Primack. Those ready to party need look no further than the uproarious "Vrainje" or the title track. No matter which direction the nine-piece band goes, it easily takes the listener along for the ride. –-Tad Hendrickson