West Philadelphia Orchestra is a very strange and intriguing mix between an actual orchestra and a gypsy folk band. There is definitely a middle-eastern vibe around the music as well. The mix of strings, horns, and percussion is well composed, and highly thought out. It is very dynamic, rising and falling, never going in quite one direction or the other. For such a large group, all of the instruments are surprisingly in perfect synchronicity and harmony with each other, working together to provide full, precise songs. It also seems that every instrument, and there are many, has its time to shine, so this also demonstrates a tremendous group effort. There is something to be said about their live show in particular, though. This group of wonderfully talented musicians plays off of each other with ease, and has a huge amount of energy in every show. It appears to be a dancing, shouting, and clapping extravaganza for the audience, as full crowd participation is encouraged. Don’t miss a chance to be part of the show tonight at Johnny Brenda’s as West Philadelphia Orchestra joins Slavic Soul Party for a “clash of the avant brass bands”. Johnny Brenda’s, 1201 N. Frankford Ave., 9 pm, $10, 21+ myspace.com/westphiladelphiaorchestra – James Sanderson