With the release of their debut EP, Meet Tipsy Oxcart, Tipsy Oxcart is introducing the world to a unique fusion of indie rock and Balkan part music. The band is playing across New York and laying the groundwork for a full-length album.

Today, we’re talking to Connell Thompson, Maya Shanker, Jeremy Bloom, Ayal Tsubery, and Dani Danor about forming Tipsy Oxcart, getting inspiration from YouTube videos of Romani weddings and what’s next for the band.

Is there a story behind the band name?

It’s based on an obscure folk fable so anti-climactic that we won’t waste your time in recounting it. That being said, the name is quite useful in a variety of circumstances. In addition to inspiring countless puns to encourage folks to *tip* the band, it also helps us encourage an atmosphere of responsible alcohol consumption at our shows. After all, an audience more tipsy makes way for a performance with far more whimsy.

How did Tipsy Oxcart get started?

In middle school, Connell switched from Clarinet to Saxophone in an effort to reduce bullying all ready rampant due to his red hair. Only after college when he was invited to sub in a Balkan brass band did he rediscover just how badass the instrument can be. With a newly found passion for microtones and odd rhythms, he met violinist Maya and together they began to make Queens-bound pilgrimages to transplanted legends of Bulgarian folk music. Now with more knowledge of the music and stomachs full of freshly imported cheeses and cured meat, they set out to find a rhythm section. They found accordionist Jeremy through NYC’s underground Balkan scene and Bassist\Drummer Ayal and Dani through the Jazz scene.

How would you describe your songwriting process?

Give us a bottle of your strongest Serbian apricot brandy and twelve hours.

What’s next?

We just released our Digital EP available on our website tipsyoxcart.com, so now we are working to build up some new material for a full-length album. Until then, we are performing regularly around New York. We have a few small tours planned to DC, Philly, and New England. We’re also seeking to purchase a tour ox so please contact us if you have one available. Must be under the age of 11 and reputable character. Tipsy Oxcart is an equal opportunity employer.