The Romanian word încâlcita means confusing or unclear. In popular music it refers to a bit of cleverness by musicians (lautari) to surprise both listeners and dancers. The music begins with an introduction in 3/4 time, leading everyone to believe it’s a waltz. On the fifth measure, however, the musician turns the rhythm into a 4/4, throwing the disconcerted dancers into a muddle.
Încâlcita in Moldavia, Floricica in Oltenia and Brâuleţul in Muntenia are examples of dances requiring considerable skill and agility. The steps are fast, small and precise, enhanced with many crossing movements forward and back. They are done on the ball of the foot or the heel, in syncopated rhythms.

Presented by Sonia Dion & Cristian Florescu in 2008. View pdf here.