Customer Reviews

Nonstop

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Balkanarama is an enormously talented group who can emulate the natural rhythms and vocals of the Balkans and simultaneously maintain their own unique identity. These are Americans who play the traditional or urban music of Bulgaria, Macedonia, or the Romani with the flair and improvisational abandonment of regional musicians! At times Balkanarama stays well within the the boundaries of tradition, for example, "Krusevo abe pristigna" on "Nonstop" sung and played by Balkanarama sounds just like the original, sung by Vaska Ilieva, an icon of Macedonian folk music. Other times they stretch the boundaries by adding unique embellishments, most often on the clarinet, alto sax, or violin, all the while staying true to the regional rhythm and melody. All in all: you have to hear it to appreciate it! Once you hear it, you will *definitely* be hooked! Erika Borsos (erikab93)

If I didn't know that the bandmembers were Americans, I would swear that they were from the Old Country. A lot of care was taken to present these musical gems as authentically as possible. Thanks for including the lyrics--it's helpful to understand the emotion behind the song and encourages me to learn the songs myself (pronounciation guide to Rom words is included) I found I couldn't just sit and listen to this CD, I had to get up and dance while it played! Los Angeles' loss is Seattle's biggest gain.

This is one of the best Balkan CDs it's ever been my privilege to listen to! An absolute MUST for any collector! Balkanarama presents the best of the genre, and they do it better than anyone else.

I am from Bulgaria and I have both of Balkanarama's cds. I love them. The song variety is great with both sentimental, melancholic melodious songs and faster paced dancy ones. Definitely check out their stuff if you like international music. I'm waiting for their next album.

Perfect CD!

Five stars not enough!!

I can't find words to explain the things I feel while listening to the songs in this CD.

Bravo to Balkanarama!

If you like traditional Balkan music, don't miss this CD.

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Hot Balkan music for dancing, listening and singing along (thanks for the lyrics!). With selections ranging from Rom,Bulgarian and Greek dance tunes there's something here to satisfy wedding music junkies, traditional folkies and anyone that likes good music. Great liner notes, too. No more guessing what dance type or rhythm (7/8 lesno, anyone?). I liked this CD so much I bought two!

This was a great cd. i had lots of fun listening to it. can't wait for the next album to come out. i'm going to see them live in a couple weeks and i'm SO excited! that violin player is so hot, and a really good musician. you go guy! just don't take any pictures of the drummer when she's playing...you guys rock!