Even though the songs aren't about war and cultural division, the pain in the voices of these singers (both male and female) make the battle-scarred history of this region obvious.There is a dark harshness of emotion in all of these songs.It can be quite heavy going.
The traditional element in this music is always prominent, though it isn't for purist tastes.Jazz is very strongly involved in most of these tunes.Clarinets and plucked bass add to the off-kilter sound.Often the traditional instruments are played non-traditionally.There are modern embelishments, like the overlaying of different performances.(eg. Track 1 is a collage of an ensemble with male singer, and Bulgarian choir).'Urban traditional', this cd's music could be phrased.However, it is always totally Balkan.You won't confuse it with any other region's use of modernity.So, it is still distinct and authentic, even if it is 'new' sounding.The recordings are a combination of field recordings (modern quality, not old-era) and studio.But it's all seemless.
The liner-note booklet is magnificent.There are very telling photographs.Included is a nice little history of how all these countries and racial groups are related, and how they're 'not' related.Their languages and their struggles.Each song's meaning or usage within the cultures are explained.And, information on the musicians themselves.This production presents a very interesting and well-rounded story of all you need to know about the music.Very well done, considering the limit of space that a cd package provides.
Overall, it succeeds at surrounding you in the culture and current feel of the region.Some may find this music a little abrasive (I almost gave it only 4* because I can't always relate to its degree of harshness.But, I think I'm gradually understanding it more, so I pre-emptively gave it the final*).But, if you are already familiar with Balkan expression, you probably already see it coming ...it's a 'harsh reality' feel.Needless to say, if you want 'pretty' music, this isn't going to fulfill you.Nevertheless, this is a very strong and successful ethnic project.
