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Biography
Geoff Berner (born 26 November 1971) is a Canadian singer-songwriter and accordionist. Predominantly a composer and performer of klezmer music, having proclaimed himself the "Avenging Angel of Klezmer", Berner's darkly humorous, insightful and satirical lyrics, as well as his cabaret live act, have gained him considerable underground acclaim and popularity throughout the world. He is often accompanied by Diona Davies on violin and Wayne Adams on drums. Frequent collaborators include Dan bern, Carolyn Mark, and The Corb Lund Band.
Born Geoffrey Berner in Vancouver, British Columbia, his early years had him learning the piano; Berner picked up the accordion after being asked why he did not play it at a party. His musical career began as lead vocalist and accordionist for eclectic punk band Terror of Tiny Town, who were active throughout most of the '90s. The band eventually faced economical troubles and ultimately disbanded after the release of two studio albums. In early 2000, had been deported to Norway, where he was now regularly performing, where he witnessed one of the earliest known live performances by Kaizers Orchestra, an alternative rock band with whom he would collaborate years later.
