Kolo Baro originated as a composition for the Mahala Rai Banda's 2009 release "Ghetto Blasters." The melody and arrangement is emblematic of modern Romanian Romani brass styles, and serves as both an update of, and a reference to the long standing brass traditions of the Romani diaspora in the Moldavian region of Romani, and in particular, the village of Zece Prăjini. The contrasting swung and straight rhythms of this version highlight the conflicts between traditional Romanian performance, and more modern (and more profitable) "world music" performances.
Founded in 2013, The m9 (pronounced The minor 9) draws inspiration from high-energy brass bands from across the globe to create a unique soundscape where East and West collide. The new global fusion sounds of the rich Balkan Romani brass tradition form the core of a repertoire which excites, invigorates, and inspires curiosity about one of Europe's most misunderstood minorities.