"A new wave of interest in Balkan music on a global scale was provoked by the rise of the famous Yugoslav film director Emir Kusturica.
Russia did not escape his influence, where, among other compositions that turned to the musical heritage of the Balkans, the "Bubamara Brass Band" of maestro Aleksandar Kashtanov stands out brightly.
This ensemble has an amazing positive energy, which, it would seem, should be an integral attribute of Balkan music, but not every foreign collective turns out to be so amazing and positive.
Chestnut companions are a pleasant exception. An engineer by basic education, he turned to music and began his performing career in the "Vodovorot" ethno-ensemble, where, strange as it sounds today, he played the role of a guitarist. The "Bubamara Brass Band" appeared later, and here Aleksandar switched to the saxophone. The group's repertoire is based on folk melodies and author's themes, many of which are well known in Russia for the same films by Kusturica. Kashtanov does not hesitate to write himself, and the warm reception of the audience is another confirmation that the bandleader really managed to find his place in this music. Bright, colorful improvisations of wind instruments, a unique show that combines unrestrained Balkan drive, tribal dances and vocals. And the promising projects of the collective allow us to hope for the output of the entertainment of the concerts to a new level: here there is a "fire show", and theatrical performances, and the connection of a DJ. "

(Estate Jazz 2010).