One can assume that the strains of klezmer have exerted their uplifting power against the drear of many an Eastern European storm, cheer fighting the forces of nature. Charan po Rantan’s funky Balkan reenvisioning on a rainy Pyramid Garden morning carried that tradition into the 21st century, imploring the crowd to forget the inclemency, instead to live life!

Sisters Momo and Koharu are seasoned professionals, the former as a sultry baladress, the latter as an accordion prodigy. Their set showcased not only their technical prowess, but also the sheer force of their charisma. Their banter with each other amd with the crowd harkened back to vaudeville, as did their colorful costumes.

The cavorting accordion gave the whole set the feel of roasted peanuts and a big top circus, Koharu is a musician who makes her instrument look effortless. Momo had complete command of the stage, eliciting call and response, hamming it up like a professional smart-aleck, or simply smoldering like a guttering chanson flame.

The playfulness of the set list, a reimagining of ‘Saturday Night’ but all about Hikkikomori (Soto Denai, very clever), boozing, family fights, tooth aches, more silly topics than a borscht-belt comedian could shake a stick at, showcased what the band is all about – having a darned good time. They are dyed in the wool entertainers, and that is something they should be proud of. Pulling a flock of street performers into the set at the last moment stood as proof of this. They entertain.

Even if the weather isn’t so happy, it is hard not to smile when you are buoyed on Charan po Rantan’s charm. And accordion.