Customer Reviews

Chaje Shukarije

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Esma Redzepova, a musician of extraordinary vocal talent, brings across her life, travels, political struggles, charm, wit, and indomitable spirit in a well selected collection of songs. She is accompanied by Teodosievski Ensemble, the band formed by her husband Stevo. The first song is the traditional "Nikolco", performed as an acappella solo. I enjoyed hearing her voice stand alone for an entire song before the impressive band kicks in. "Nahtareja Mo Ilo Danljan" is one of her most beautiful compositions and was previously released as a pop song that is pure cheese. Here it is delivered in a more traditional form with a strong Middle Eastern flavor. It is moving and powerful. She executes a demanding style vocally, with many ornaments, and somehow manages to bring the material across as being effortless and fun to sing. It certainly is fun to listen to.


This CD is produced by Frank London of the Klezmatics and is the first available release of her music in the U.S. since "Songs of a Macedonian Gypsy" in 1994. Several of the songs from the 1994 release are included here. Rest assured that these are new arrangements in a voice which has matured and improved. If you are an Esma fan, you will want to have both recordings. There are a few traditionals but most of the songs are "novokomponovana" (newly composed) folk songs by Esma and Stevo.


"Queen of the Gypsies" isn't just a catchy title and is not a title to be taken lightly. In 1961 she was "meda sijum ternori" (the little gypsy girl) who sang for eighty-nine presidents at the International Summit Conference and since 1976, Esma Redzepova has been the undisputed Queen of Romani Song. She won this title at the First World Festival of Romany Songs and Music. The award was presented to her by Prime Minister Indira Ghandi. She began singing and performing at the age of 12 and has been a strong clear voice for the Romani people for more than 40 years. The CD also comes with a small booklet of commentary and includes 14 full cover photographs printed on quality paper stock. Fans of Esma will be thrilled with this recording, and fans of world music and "gypsy songs" have the chance to experience the real thing.

Esma is a phenomenal vocalist and a Romani ("gypsy") woman from Macedonia. Her "band" are musicians she has basically adopted and raised - and developed their talent.
I've seen her perform several times, which makes it even more meaningful, but it is an excellent album regardless.

Esma has such a strong mind engraving voice, you can hear it even after you stop the music. I like most of the songs. Some make me want to jump up and dance, some make me want to drown in sorrow and slice my wrist. Of course this is the only right response to gypsy music if you fully absorb it into your soul. Lots of drama in gypsy music! I love being able to order her CD on amazon!

The CD is wonderful and arrived in great condition. Thanks.

Just wish the shipping was not so expensive!