Formed by drummer John Rae, The Troubles are a standout band that stretches beyond what most would think of a jazz ensemble. Sure, there are saxophones, trumpets, bass and drums, but in this iteration of the band flute, clarinet, violin, viola and cello are also involved in the joyful sonic anarchy. The sound that arises from the various groupings that occur in the group’s arrangements is eclectic and reminiscent of the 1960s Charles Mingus Band and the experimental Third Stream bands of the same period. Their music comes out of those sound worlds, expanded with influences from European, Balkan and Middle Eastern folk music, all tweaked and melded into their own sonic landscape.​