Alternately kooky and beautiful, this far-flung German ensemble combines some of the insistent outsider experimentalism of The Ex, et al with the mellow amorphous poppiness of Polyphonic Spree, as well as the workmanlike, joyful competence of Paris Combo... Yes, it's the sound of a large number of amiable, unhurried musicians for whom the act of making music -- and having fun while you do it -- is an end in and of itself. Their love of collaboration and exploration will come through loud and clear to receptive listeners: if you're into Balkan brass bands, French accordion music, Jewish klezmer and gypsy swing or even ethereal indie ballads, you'll probably enjoy this album a lot. The Hippies flow from style to style, with each strand woven together in a surprisingly cohesive whole. Recommended! (DJ Joe Sixpack)